The Quotable Marcel Marceau

Born into a Jewish family in 1922, Marcel was the eldest of two sons. When France entered World War II, his family was forced to flee to Limoges for protection, where he and his brother, Alain changed their last name to ‘Marceau’.

Marcel’s wish to become an actor began during his childhood when he saw Charlie Chaplin on the big screen. He enrolled in acting school after the war ended. On graduating, he was cast as Arlequin (Harlequin) in the pantomime Baptiste. His performance was a success and sealed his future as a star. Now get a sample of his wisdom.

“Music and silence combine strongly because music is done with silence, and silence is full of music.”

“What sculptors do is represent the essence of gesture. What is important in mime is attitude.”

“In silence and movement you can show the reflection of people.”

“Do not the most moving moments of our lives find us without words?”

“Never get a mime talking. He won’t stop.”

“Sometimes it’s good to shut up.”

“A magician makes the visible invisible. A mime makes the invisible visible.”