Usefulness! It is not a fascinating word, and the quality is not one of which the aspiring spirit can dream o' nights, yet on the stage it is the first thing to aim at.

The tragedian will always be a limited tragedian if he has not learned how to laugh. The comedian who cannot weep will never touch the highest levels of mirth.

Only a great actor finds the difficulties of the actor's art infinite.

Imagination! Imagination! I put it first years ago, when I was asked what qualities I thought necessary for success upon the stage. And I am still of the same opinion. Imagination, industry [hard work], and intelligence-the three I's-are all indispensable to the actor, but of these three the greatest is, without any doubt, imagination.

Security is mortal's chiefest enemy.

Imagination! Imagination! I put it first years ago, when I was asked what qualities I thought necessary for success on the stage.

Vary the pace. ... it is one of the foundations of all good acting.