Joshua Logan

Date of Birth: October 5, 1908

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Date of Death: July 12, 1988

Biography

Joshua Lockwood Logan III was an influential American stage and film director, playwright, and screenwriter. Born on October 5, 1908, in Texarkana, Texas, Logan made significant contributions to American theater and film during the mid-20th century. He is best known for directing and co-writing the musical “South Pacific,” which won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1950. Logan also directed the Broadway production of “Mister Roberts,” which became a huge success and was later adapted into a film starring Henry Fonda and James Cagney. Logan’s career began in the 1930s, and he quickly rose to prominence on Broadway. His work was characterized by a strong sense of storytelling, emotional depth, and a keen eye for casting. In addition to his work in theater, Logan directed several successful films, including “Picnic” (1955), which earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Director, and “Bus Stop” (1956), which featured a notable performance by Marilyn Monroe. Logan’s contributions to the arts were recognized with numerous awards and honors throughout his career. He was a founding member of the Actors Studio and served as a mentor to many young actors and directors. Despite his professional success, Logan faced personal challenges, including struggles with mental health, which he candidly discussed in his autobiography “Josh: My Up and Down, In and Out Life.”

5 Interesting Facts about Joshua Logan

1. Joshua Logan was a Rhodes Scholar, studying at the University of Edinburgh.

2. He served in the United States Army during World War II, where he directed shows for the troops.

3. Logan was one of the original directors of the renowned Actors Studio in New York City.

4. He co-wrote the book for the musical “Annie Get Your Gun” with his friend, lyricist and librettist Oscar Hammerstein II.

5. Logan was known for his ability to bring out strong performances in actors, including his work with Marilyn Monroe in “Bus Stop.”

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Joshua Logan

1. “The theater is a great equalizer: it is the only place where the poor can look down on the rich.”

2. “There is no such thing as a small part, only small actors.”

3. “I have found that there are only two types of directors: those who make you feel like you’re nothing and those who make you feel like you’re everything.”

4. “In the theater, you’re always a student, never a master. You can always learn more.”

5. “It’s not the load that breaks you down, it’s the way you carry it.”