Yesterday, July 31st, one of my absolute theatrical heroes exited the world stage. Given his age (91) it was bound to happen sooner rather than later but Hal Prince was one of those figures who you convince yourself will live forever. In some ways he will: the mark he left on the world of theatre is truly immeasurable and the numerous shows he ushered into the word, be it as producer or director - or sometimes even both, include a substantial number which have become legendary in the entertainment industry.
To say that the news of Prince's passing came as a blow to me is an understatement and, though I sadly never met the man, his influence on me is quite far-reaching. Prince's methods and philosophy have influence my own approach to all aspects of theatre (and entertainment) and I have always devoured all material I can find on the man.
Yesterday felt like a real marking of the end of something and I will continue to mourn Harold Prince deeply. I can find some semblance of comfort in the fact that his influence still thrives throughout theatre and his productions will continue to be referred to with reverence and awe. Of course, he was not perfect - no one is - but even in his failures Prince always looked to learn something and that is something I attempt to emulate.
Harold (Hal) Prince 1928 - 2019
