 New
York, NY (September 21, 2006) -- "Rarely is such a
towering talent so under-appreciated," noted Academy
Award Winner Cliff Robertson, commenting on his recent
tribute to colleague and co-star Maureen Stapleton, who
passed away on March 13, 2006.
Invited as the Guest of Honor to address the Master
Class at the Actors Studio, now conducted by
accomplished actress Lee Grant, Mr. Robertson recalled
working with Maureen Stapleton in the Broadway
production of Tennessee Williams’ “Orpheus Descending.”
Ms. Stapleton also appeared in a supporting role in the
1959 film adaptation: “The Fugitive Kind” directed by
Sidney Lumet, starring Marlon Brando.
Mr. Robertson described how he remained in touch with
Ms. Stapleton, and spoke with her just last year about
her continuing work in films, on stage, and in
television productions. "I am very grateful to Lee Grant
for inviting me to address the Master Class on behalf of
my friend, colleague, and co-star Maureen Stapleton, and
I am especially thankful to the class for their warm
reception."
Born Lois Maureen Stapleton, in 1980 she earned the
Actors Studio Award for her contributions to the
theater. She also earned an Academy Award for Best
Supporting Actress. an Emmy Award, two Tony Awards, and
was elected to the American Theater Hall of Fame.
Ms. Stapleton appeared in many well known films,
including “Airport,” Woody Allen's “Interiors,” “Reds,”
“Cocoon,” and many, many others. Her most recent film
appearance was in the 2003 feature film “Living and
Dining.” (She was not related to actress Jean
Stapleton.)
The Actors Studio is a membership organization for
professional actors, theatre directors and playwrights
located in the Old Labor Stage at 432 West 44th Street
in New York City (currently under restoration.) Founded
in 1947 by Elia Kazan, Cheryl Crawford, and Robert
Lewis, the Studio is known for its work refining and
teaching method acting, The Studio came to worldwide
recognition under the leadership of Lee Strasberg, who
took over the helm in 1952. While at the Studio, actors
work together to develop their skills in an experimental
environment, where they can take risks as performers
without the pressure of commercial roles.
From September 1994 through May 2005, the Studio
collaborated with New School University in the education
of Masters level theatre students at the Actors Studio
Drama School (ASDS). Beginning in Fall 2006, the Actors
Studio is offering a three-year Master of Fine Arts
(MFA) degree program through Pace University. |
