The Actors Studio's 75th anniversary celebration continues with three free readings directed by one of its most famed members, Oscar winner and Actors Studio Co-Associate Artistic Director Estelle Parsons.
The Directed By Estelle Parsons series kicks off April 20-21 at 7 PM at The Actors Studio with Maria Irene Fornés' The Danube, followed by Anton Chekhov's Uncle Vanya (Acts 1 and 2) April 22 at 2 PM and Re-entry April 22 at 7 PM. The latter, created by a group of Actors Studio members, deals with the issues faced by men trying to survive post-incarceration.
Actors Studio Artistic Director Beau Gravitte said in an earlier statement, “We are all grateful for her tireless dedication to our growth as artists and for the deep impact she has had on each of us. Please join us as we celebrate the incredible legacy of Estelle Parsons at The Actors Studio.”
Parsons joined The Actors Studio—the membership association for professional actors, directors, and playwrights—in the early years, studying with Lee Strasberg. In 1996, she became the artistic director of The Actors Studio and initiated several programs, including the Group Theatre Reading Series, which explored the history of the Group Theatre. A passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion in the arts, she developed the Theater and Social Justice program to showcase plays that addressed important social issues. Her passion for social justice and change continues today as she directs Kate T. Billingsley's American Rot at The Actors Studio.
Parsons, who has appeared in or directed over 30 Broadway productions, was nominated for the Tony for her performances in The Velocity of Autumn, The Seven Descents of Myrtle, And Miss Reardon Drinks a Little, Miss Margarida's Way, and Morning's at Seven. Her performance in Bonnie and Clyde won her an Academy Award, and she was nominated again the following year for her work in Rachel, Rachel.
While The Actors Studio’s 75th anniversary events are free and open to the public, reviews and photography of events are not permitted.
Those who would like to attend must reserve seats and receive confirmation of access. Visit TheActorsStudio.org.
