I have no acting technique I act instinctively. That's why I can't play any role that isn't based on something in my life.

Nothing can beat the smell of dew and flowers and the odor that comes out of the earth when the sun goes down.

Though I was excited about the Sojourner Truth play, it was not reassuring to think that my entire future might depend on the success of that one show.

I have reason to be shy. I've been hurt plenty.

We show girls were forced to live in whorehouses in each town, no other accommodations being available.

The greatest acts in colored show business had long made Harlem their home and favorite stamping ground.

There was one emotional outlet my people always had when they had the blues. That was singing.