Harold Prince

Date of Birth: January 30, 1928

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Date of Death: July 31, 2019

Biography

Harold Prince, often known as Hal Prince, was an illustrious American theatre producer and director whose career spanned several decades. Born Harold Smith Prince, he became a pioneering figure in the world of Broadway, leaving an indelible mark with his innovative and daring productions. Prince’s career began in the early 1950s, and he quickly rose to prominence with his work on iconic musicals such as “West Side Story,” “Fiddler on the Roof,” and “Cabaret.” He was known for his collaborative spirit and his ability to bring out the best in his creative teams. Over the course of his career, Prince garnered a record 21 Tony Awards, making him one of the most decorated individuals in the history of American theater. His contributions to the arts were recognized with numerous accolades, including a Kennedy Center Honor and a National Medal of Arts. Prince’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of theatrical production and his commitment to storytelling have left a lasting legacy on Broadway and beyond.

5 Interesting Facts about Harold Prince

1. Harold Prince directed the original Broadway productions of “Phantom of the Opera” and “Sweeney Todd.”

2. He began his career as an assistant stage manager to George Abbott, a legendary figure in American theater.

3. Prince was instrumental in the creation of the concept musical, a genre where the show’s theme or message is more important than the narrative.

4. He was posthumously inducted into the American Theatre Hall of Fame in 2019.

5. Prince served in the United States Army before embarking on his theatrical career.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Harold Prince

1. “I think theater should surprise you. It should confront you. It should engage you.”

2. “The theater is a communal event, and it’s necessary for the soul.”

3. “I’ve always been attracted to stories about people who are not like everybody else.”

4. “You don’t outgrow the theater. If you’re lucky, you grow into it.”

5. “The only thing you have to do is to keep moving forward.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Harold Prince’s net worth was estimated to be around $60 million.

Children

Harold Prince had two children with his wife, Judy Chaplin: a daughter named Daisy Prince, who followed in her father’s theatrical footsteps as a director, and a son named Charles Prince, who became a conductor.