"It never became an act in the sense of an act. It was always, no matter where we worked, little revues"
About this Quote
Adolph Green's quote reflects a nuanced view of performance, possibly referring to his experiences in theater with his partner Betty Comden. The distinction he makes in between "an act" and "little revues" can be understood as a commentary on the nature and scope of his innovative work.
The term "act" typically connotes a more formal, polished efficiency, possibly indicating a particular, cohesive production with a conclusive structure and narrative. On the other hand, "revues" are typically lighter, more fragmented shows made up of different songs, dances, and sketches looped by a thematic or comical thread. This suggests that Green's work, regardless of the place ("no matter where we worked"), kept an element of spontaneity and informality. It was perhaps more speculative and flexible than a standard theater act would be, permitting innovative liberty and flexibility.
Green's expression "it never became an act in the sense of an act" shows that his productions deliberately strayed far from ending up being too stiff or conventional. By emphasizing "little revues", he highlights their intimate and perhaps transient nature, which may have been designed to connect with audiences on a more personal level. This choice underscores a dedication to a design that values variety and wit over the restraints of a completely scripted act.
Furthermore, Green could be stressing the natural advancement of these efficiencies, showing a creative approach that rewards the procedure of creation as much as the end result. This method can foster a more vibrant and interesting experience for both entertainers and audiences, maintaining a freshness and immediacy that may be lost in more sleek productions.
In essence, Green appears to be promoting a kind of theater that celebrates creativity's fluidity and durability, preserving an element of surprise and enchantment in every efficiency.