Colleen Dewhurst

By Tom Viola and Colleen Dewhurst

Book Overview

Before her death in August 1991, Colleen Dewhurst spent two decades working on the notes and tapes that would make up the pages of this autobiography, giving readers a complete sketch of the woman known as one of the greatest actresses of her time.

"Over ten years ago, I had an idea that brings me to this very moment," are the words of Colleen Dewhurst that led her to recall and record the numerous stories of her life that led to this book.

Including stories of her experiences mothering a daughter who wrestled the domineering strength of her mother's will, being a student of Tyrone Gutherie, Harold Clurman, and Joseph Papp, winning multiple Obies, Tonys, and Emmys, and her lifetime as a friend whose laughter and easy willingness to share joy, pain, and random ridiculousness of life invited many into her heart.

Interviews with friends of Colleen's, such as Ellen Burstyn, Jose Quintero, and Roscoe Lee Browne enhance the pages of this autobiography, telling the story of a life filled with indelible impressions and stunning influence.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 074324270X
• ISBN13: 9780743242707
• Release Date: April 2002
• Publisher: Scribner Book Company
• Length: 400 Pages
• Weight: 1.25 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.1" x 5.4" x 8.6"

Customer Reviews

A Woman Whose Heart Was a Grand as Her Smile

While watching a drive-in movie as a teenager, I became aware of an incredible actress. She was playing a woman being stalked by the killer of children in the horror film, "When a Stranger Calls". I could not take my eyes off of this middle-aged actress who was... not beautiful in the classic sense, a bit heavy and possessing an unusally deep and gravelly voice, for a woman. Her character, a lonely, world-weary person, who although street smart and a bit jaded, would flash bits of the warmest eyes and smile that I had ever seen. This was Colleen Dewhurst. This was also the nature of Dewhurst's career in film and televisiom; too often, bringing much more to the materisal than it was capable of ever giving back. This a very good autobiography, finished after her death by family, friends and lovers. It is loving account of the extraordinary life of an, equally, extraordinary woman. A fascinating and very fummy history of the world of American theatre, from the 1940's through the 80's and the myriad characters Dewhurst attracted to her during her time here. The book makes one wish that one had been among the very fortunate "strays" that Colleen Dewhurst was famous for takiing into her home and her heart. I think that you, too, will enjoy her telling (and those who survived her) of her life on the "Farm".

A classy Classic

Colleen was a true artist.The fact that her book was ultimately unfinished reflects her life. She did not acknowledge dying, so therefore, she left an unfinished book. It was great to learn more about her, both as an actress and mother, and I enjoyed reading others accounts of events.

Made me wish I had known her!

This was a great biography to read. Not strictly an autiobiography because Colleen never finished working on it herself, but it makes up for that by including many stories & chapters written by her friends, fellow actors & family. This was the first biography I read that really made me wish I had a chance to know the person in life. I've always considered Colleen Dewhurst a respected actor but after reading this, I know that she was truly a warm & wonderful person. She will be missed.

A truly wonderful book!

If you're interested in the New York theatre during the 50s and 60s (and later), this book is not to be missed. Dewhurst procrastinated for years about this book; hence it was unfinished when she died. But the additional pieces from her family and colleagues add immeasurably to the book's richness. An unforgettable memoir from a very great artist and personality - her personal warmth and her professional dedication are evident on literally every page. If you care enough to have checked this book out, you will want to have it!