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About Quote by Mike Nichols

“It took me forever, learning improvisation, because I had studied with Lee Strasberg - I dropped out of Chicago and went to his classes in New York for a couple of years, once or twice a week. What I didn't realize was I was learning directing because he wasn't all that good about acting, not for…” quote by Mike Nichols
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“It took me forever, learning improvisation, because I had studied with Lee Strasberg - I dropped out of Chicago and went to his classes in New York for a couple of years, once or twice a week. What I didn't realize was I was learning directing because he wasn't all that good about acting, not for me.”

Mike Nichols

About This Quote

Source Interview: Podcast with The Hollywood Reporter, 2014

He discovered that his acting lessons unintentionally taught him directing skills, revealing the indirect benefits of learning from imperfect teachers.

In simple terms: Learning acting taught him directing unexpectedly.

Key Takeaway

Embrace unexpected lessons from imperfect mentors.

Themes

learning directing mentor skill transfer

Mood

reflective insightful

Type

observational inspirational

When to use this quote

  • Acting class
  • directing projects
  • career pivot
  • creative workshops

Key Concepts

Improvisation creative development indirect learning

Questions to Reflect On

  • What hidden skills have you gained from a flawed teacher?
  • How can you turn imperfect instruction into advantage?
A Different Perspective

If the teacher is weak, you may still gain valuable skills elsewhere.

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