PDF Summary:Still Here, by Alexandra Jacobs

From her early days as a precocious child performer in Detroit to her late career renaissance as a brassy Broadway icon, Still Here chronicles the life of Elaine Stritch with unflinching honesty. Alexandra Jacobs pulls no punches in sharing the actress's struggles with addiction, romance, and an industry that didn't always embrace her unique talent and bold persona.

Yet through it all, Stritch remained a consummate entertainer who brought emotional depth to every role. This in-depth portrait captures the triumphs, heartbreaks, and Stritch's relentless drive that made her one of the most memorable voices in modern American theater.

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The author suggests that Coward found his young protege's brash American energy both fascinating and somewhat alarming. Yet he had a soft spot for the "Stritch doll", a phrase encapsulating her tendency to throw off unwanted ideas, and indulged, at least for a time, her bad habit of arriving hungover, or even drunk, to rehearsals, patiently instructing her in singing his songs with inflection and nuance rather than her customary shout-belting. Their bond, though mostly professional, Jacobs notes, also instilled in Stritch the confidence to ask for more, both professionally and in life, and strengthened her desire to establish a home base that reflected her aspirations.

Context

• The process of rewriting a musical can involve significant changes to the script, songs, and character development. Coward's decision to rewrite parts of "Sail Away" suggests he was tailoring the show to better fit Stritch's strengths as a performer.
• The mentorship likely extended beyond professional advice, helping Stritch develop greater self-awareness and confidence, which are essential for personal and career growth in the competitive world of theater.
• For many American artists, London offered a respite from the competitive and often rigid structures of Broadway. The city's diverse artistic community provided a more relaxed environment where experimentation and collaboration were encouraged.
• Coward, born in 1899, belonged to an earlier generation than Stritch, who was born in 1925. This age difference could have contributed to his mixed feelings, as Stritch's energy represented a new wave of theatrical expression that was emerging in the post-war era.
• Noël Coward himself was no stranger to the pressures and excesses of theatrical life, possibly making him more empathetic to Stritch's struggles and more willing to offer her leeway.
• Inflection refers to the modulation of pitch and tone in singing, which can convey different emotions and meanings. Nuance involves subtle variations in expression, allowing a performer to add depth and complexity to a song.
• Confidence gained in a professional setting can translate to personal life, encouraging individuals to pursue their desires and set higher goals for themselves.
• The contrast between the pressures of New York and the opportunities in London could have highlighted the benefits of having a retreat that aligned with her personal and professional goals, away from the competitive Broadway scene.

Coward’s Mentorship Shaping Her Persona and Fostering English Theater Appreciation

Jacobs emphasizes how Noel Coward's influence on Stritch was multifaceted. Beyond training her in performance techniques, he became her "Professor Higgins" on the art of sophisticated living, advising on everything from table manners to witty repartee. He introduced Stritch to elegant restaurants, social gatherings, and his Jamaican home, opening doors to a rarefied world she had only dreamed about as a Catholic schoolgirl in Detroit. Jacobs suggests that this mentorship not only contributed to Stritch's evolving public persona but also instilled a deep admiration for English theater and its understated elegance. This shift is highlighted by their work together in London on the West End production of "Sail Away," where Stritch finally found a part tailored to her comedic and dramatic range, earning raves from the English critics.

However, Jacobs notes that, despite their strong bond, tension did exist between them. Stritch's impatience and sharp tongue occasionally clashed with Coward's propriety, resulting in playful skirmishes and cutting remarks. Their differences in personality and outlook, particularly toward the changing social landscape of the sixties, are revealed in anecdotes about their theater outings, where Elaine's boisterous laughter would grate on the older man's more reserved temperament. Despite such conflicts, though, Coward remained a steadfast champion of Stritch’s talent and a lasting influence, with whom she sought to replicate, at least for intervals, the elegant lifestyle.

Context

• Coward's home in Jamaica, known as "Firefly," was a retreat for many celebrities and artists. Visiting such a place would have offered Stritch a unique perspective on leisure and creativity, away from the public eye.
• The role in "Sail Away" not only advanced her career but also contributed to her personal growth as an artist, allowing her to explore and refine her craft in a supportive environment.

Other Perspectives

• The term "trained" might not fully capture the complexity of their relationship; it could have been more about mutual inspiration and exchange of ideas rather than a traditional teacher-student dynamic.
• The concept of sophisticated living, including table manners and witty repartee, can be subjective and culturally specific, suggesting that what Coward taught Stritch may not be universally recognized as the epitome of sophistication.
• The phrase "rarefied world" implies a positive, desirable outcome, but some might argue that such environments can also be restrictive and may not necessarily lead to personal or artistic fulfillment for everyone.
• Stritch's background and upbringing in Detroit, as well as her education in a Catholic school, could have had a profound impact on her character and public image, potentially rivaling or even surpassing Coward's mentorship.
• The understated elegance of English theater that Stritch came to admire might also have been a reflection of the broader cultural exchange between American and British theater, rather than the result of one individual's mentorship.
• Tension between individuals can sometimes be a sign of a dynamic and productive relationship rather than a negative aspect, as it can lead to growth and creative friction.
• The so-called clashes might have been exaggerated or misinterpreted by observers, and what was perceived as tension could have been a form of playful banter that was part of their dynamic.
• The use of the word "clashed" implies a significant conflict, but it could have been that these moments of tension were minor and did not deeply affect their friendship or professional relationship.
• The nature of their mentor-mentee relationship might suggest that Coward's support was also a way to maintain his own influence and relevance in the theater world.
• Replicating Coward's lifestyle intermittently suggests a lack of commitment, which could be due to Stritch's personal preferences or financial constraints rather than a true desire to live as Coward did.

Transition to Non-Musical Roles With Albee and Williams

Dramatic Roles: Martha In "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?" and Leona In "Small Craft Warnings"

In the mid-1960s, Stritch shifted focus from musicals, where she had enjoyed only intermittent success, to straight plays by two of the country's most important playwrights: Edward Albee and Tennessee Williams. Jacobs charts this transition, highlighting that Stritch’s acting choices had matured and she aimed to play characters with emotional depth, those wrestling with complicated life issues like marriage, loss, and creative ambition. The author emphasizes how this development paralleled Stritch’s personal life as she transitioned from her tempestuous relationship with Gazzara to a more companionable marriage with Bay, finding a different kind of intimacy and security in a relationship that didn’t demand the full force of her romantic attention.

Her portrayal of Martha in the play by Edward Albee garnered praise from Albee himself, who appreciated the subtlety and restraint she brought to the role, despite her reputation for “big and bawdy.” In Tennessee Williams’s Small Craft Warnings, she played Leona in a way that resonated deeply not only with her own growing sense of disillusionment with the show-business industry but also with a larger social unease and even alienation. This was solidified by America’s mounting involvement in the Vietnam War, in which Stritch, Jacobs notes, took no interest; and by the rise of a counterculture whose embrace of rock music was a distinct rebuke to the prewar theatrical forms she revered.

Practical Tips

• Explore a new creative medium to refresh your perspective and skills. If you're accustomed to one form of artistic expression, like painting, try your hand at sculpture or digital art. This shift can reignite your passion and may lead to unexpected breakthroughs in your original medium by providing new insights and techniques.
• Start a journal where you write from the perspective of different fictional characters each week. This exercise can help you practice seeing the world through various lenses, improving your ability to understand and relate to people with different life experiences and emotional complexities.
• Engage in improvisation exercises to enhance your adaptability and decision-making skills. Actors often use improvisation to develop their craft, but you don't need to be an actor to benefit from it. Try simple improv games, like creating a story on the spot with a friend or spontaneously role-playing different scenarios. This can help you become more comfortable with change and improve your ability to make mature choices in unexpected situations.
• Practice active listening during conversations with your partner, focusing on understanding their perspective without immediately reacting or judging. This can help reduce conflict and build a more supportive and companionable partnership. You might set aside time each week for a 'listening session' where you each share something important to you while the other person practices active listening.
• You can enhance your communication skills by practicing subtlety and restraint in everyday conversations. Start by observing how often you interject or dominate discussions, and then consciously hold back, allowing others more space to speak. This can lead to more balanced interactions and can help you become a better listener, which is a key aspect of effective communication.
• Create a personal "disillusionment scale" to gauge your satisfaction with your current job or industry. Rate different aspects of your work life, such as growth opportunities, company culture, and personal values alignment, on a scale from 1 to 10. Regularly assessing these areas can alert you to growing dissatisfaction and prompt proactive changes before disillusionment sets in.
• Create a personal journal to document moments of disconnection or alienation you observe or experience in daily life, using these notes to reflect on the broader societal context.
• Create a character board that represents different aspects of your personality. Use images, quotes, and items that resonate with you to build a visual representation of your character traits. This can help you understand how your personal attributes align with the roles you take on in life, similar to how an actor might approach a role.
• Apply your emotional insights to improve your interpersonal relationships. Take time to analyze how your experiences have affected your emotional intelligence. Then, consciously use this understanding in your interactions with others. For example, if you've learned patience through overcoming a personal challenge, practice applying that patience in conversations with friends or colleagues, especially during conflicts or when offering support.
• Create a themed playlist that captures the spirit of a particular era or social movement. For instance, if you're intrigued by the counterculture of the 1960s, curate a selection of songs from that time or modern tracks that evoke similar themes. Listening to and sharing this playlist can provide a personal connection to the cultural backdrop that influenced artistic performances.

Exploring Complex Characters Facing Marriage, Loss, and Disillusionment With Mature Artistic Sensibility

Jacobs analyzes how Stritch’s transition to straight plays, even though she didn’t win a Tony award for either Woolf or Warnings, showcased a newfound maturity in her work, reflecting both her experience in Alcoholics Anonymous and her personal life with Bay, which, though hardly immune to the turbulence of her own personality, offered a different sort of reassurance, one less driven by romantic fantasy. The author describes how Stritch, while portraying the tormented, brittle, and alcohol-fueled characters in those plays, also found satisfaction in fostering the careers of younger castmates, offering professional guidance and a form of surrogate parenting absent for the most part from her own life.

The author connects this turn in Stritch’s career, from playing roles like "star maid" to becoming a troubled, even tragic heroine, to the evolving world of musical theater itself in a decade where a certain darkness and cynicism, as represented by the rock opera Tommy, were becoming the new artistic norms. If "life upon the wicked stage," as Hammerstein phrased it in Show Boat, had seemed like a glittering escape when she got to NYC in the 1940s, now it rather offered a new set of mirrors, a way to examine the darker recesses of their shared existence.

Practical Tips

• Volunteer for a project outside your comfort zone to gain maturity in your field. For instance, if you're a graphic designer, offer to help a local theater with their set design. The challenges of a different environment can push you to develop new skills and a more mature approach to your primary work.
• Develop a personal code of ethics that includes principles from your personal life experiences, such as resilience or honesty. Use this code as a guide for making work-related decisions. This practice can help you stay true to your values and ensure that your personal growth positively influences your professional life.
• Volunteer to speak at educational institutions or online forums where you can share your experiences and knowledge with students or early-career professionals. This can be a fulfilling way to give back and foster new talent, and it doesn't require you to be an expert public speaker. Simply sharing your career journey and answering questions can be immensely helpful to others.
• Explore local theater groups to understand current trends by attending performances and noting how they differ from classic musical theater. This will give you a firsthand look at the evolution similar to Stritch's career shift and inspire you to consider how your own career might adapt to changing landscapes.
• Write a short scene or monologue that captures the essence of modern cynicism in musical theater. Use this as a creative exercise to understand the narrative depth and complexity of darker themes. You don't need to be a playwright; just focus on expressing emotions and situations that reflect the current trend.
• Explore your own life narrative by writing a personal memoir that highlights your transformations, akin to the shift from "star maid" to a tragic heroine. Start by jotting down significant life events and reflect on how your roles and perceptions have changed over time. This exercise can provide insight into your personal growth and the complexity of your character.
• Engage in a creative experiment where you produce two pieces of work: one that embodies the current artistic norms you observe, such as darkness or cynicism, and another that contrasts with optimism or lightness. Comparing the two can offer insights into how adopting different perspectives can influence your work and personal growth.
• Host a themed movie night with friends where you watch film adaptations of dark musicals. After each movie, have a discussion about the themes and how they relate to real-life experiences. This can be a way to explore and understand the complexities of human existence in a social and interactive setting.
• Engage in role-reversal exercises with a trusted friend or family member. Act out scenarios where your personality traits come into play, but switch roles to gain perspective on how your actions affect others. This can lead to deeper empathy and understanding, potentially smoothing out personal turbulence.

The Defining Partnership With Sondheim and "Company"

Joanne's Role and "Ladies Who Lunch"

Jacobs analyzes Stephen Sondheim's 1970 breakthrough musical, Company, as a watershed for both Stritch’s career and the theatrical world itself, a landmark collaboration that would redefine and solidify her public persona for a new generation. Having failed to appreciate the scope of Sondheim’s talent earlier, she now embraced portraying Joanne, a jaded thrice-married alcoholic, seeing in her a distillation of her own frustrations with love and professional ambition. This role would give Stritch one of the greatest theatrical anthems of all time: "The Ladies Who Lunch," which Jacobs argues resonated not only with theatergoers but also with a larger social unrest as women’s liberation sought to expose the limitations of traditional roles.

While Sondheim did coach Stritch on delivering several lines, notably shouting "Rise! Rise!" at the song's conclusion, he felt most of it instinctive, an honest depiction of a woman with money, leisure, and a yearning for something more. Jacobs highlights the similarities between the songwriter and his muse, both raised in privileged circumstances though acutely aware of how those privileges could also mask a deep-seated emotional reserve and fragility. The author also sees Joanne as reflecting the show’s protagonist, Bobby, his own ambivalence toward marriage and commitment to friendship offering a different version of commitment: "love is where you find it,” to quote another Sondheim composition (“Being Alive”).

Context

• Joanne is a complex character who embodies the contradictions of wealth and dissatisfaction. Her struggles with love and ambition mirror the broader societal tensions of the time, making her a compelling figure for Stritch to portray.
• During the 1960s and 1970s, the women’s liberation movement sought to challenge and change the traditional roles of women in society, advocating for equal rights, opportunities, and personal freedoms. This included issues like workplace equality, reproductive rights, and breaking free from domestic expectations.
• The song has been covered and referenced by numerous artists, cementing its place in popular culture and influencing future generations of performers and songwriters.
• During the mid-20th century, societal expectations often pressured individuals from privileged backgrounds to maintain a façade of perfection, which could exacerbate feelings of isolation and emotional turmoil, influencing both Sondheim's and Stritch's personal and professional lives.
• Company premiered during a time of social change in the 1970s, reflecting shifting attitudes toward marriage and individual fulfillment. Joanne's character embodies the tension between traditional roles and the desire for personal freedom, paralleling Bobby's journey.
• The song "Being Alive" from Company encapsulates the protagonist Bobby's struggle with the idea of commitment. Joanne's perspective offers a counterpoint, suggesting that love and commitment can be found in various forms, not just through marriage.

Sondheim's Music, Stritch's Vocal Style and Wit Defining Her Legacy

Jacobs explores how Elaine Stritch's indelible performance in Company, particularly her delivery of "The Ladies Who Lunch," cemented her reputation as a master interpreter of Sondheim’s work. While Stritch was initially unsure about how to tackle certain words and notes, unsure about the “schnecken” from Mahler, she soon mastered them, integrating her distinctive speech cadences and snappy wit into Sondheim's sophisticated music. The raw, unsentimental way she exposed herself in these songs transformed them from witty observations to powerful anthems that capture the disillusionment and longing often hidden beneath a facade of sophistication.

Jacobs argues that, through her collaboration with Sondheim, Stritch discovered how to apply her unique vocal style and comedic talents to serve darker, more complex material, one echoing her struggles with addiction and evolving ideas about marriage, sexuality, and intimacy. Jacobs argues that this pivotal moment was solidified by a widely seen documentary about the session recording “Company”, where Stritch's emotional fragility and determination to triumph, fueled by alcohol, resonated with a new generation of admirers, who championed her as a legend for years to come, in spite of, not due to the increasing anxieties about what some called "the new vulgarity" of the early 1970s.

Context

• In the musical "Company," the song "The Ladies Who Lunch" is a critical moment that offers a satirical yet poignant commentary on socialite culture. Stritch's interpretation brought a raw authenticity to the piece, highlighting the underlying disillusionment and irony.
• Stephen Sondheim's compositions are renowned for their intricate lyrics and complex musical structures, often exploring themes of existential angst, societal expectations, and personal introspection, which require a nuanced interpretation to fully convey their depth.
• Stritch's personal battles, including her struggles with alcoholism, added depth to her performances, allowing her to connect with the darker themes in Sondheim's work on a personal level.
• The early 1970s were a time of significant cultural change, with shifts in social norms and artistic expression. The documentary highlighted Stritch's raw and honest approach, which contrasted with the polished performances typical of the era, resonating with audiences seeking authenticity.
• The term "new vulgarity" was used by some to criticize the perceived decline in traditional values and the rise of more provocative and boundary-pushing art forms. This criticism often came from more conservative audiences who were uncomfortable with the rapid changes.

Stritch's Transition From Musicals to Plays and Industry Challenges

Unhappiness With Film and Unsuccessful Forays Into Media

Limited Roles Disappointment; Prefers Live Theater Over Hollywood

Despite her success with Sondheim, Elaine Stritch's ongoing frustration with Hollywood was a persistent theme in her life, one Jacobs attributes to a fundamental preference for the intimacy and immediacy of the stage over the artifice and remoteness of filming. For many years, Hollywood was a mecca for those seeking reinvention, a place where struggling singers could become dazzling "star maids." But Stritch wasn't interested in shedding her true identity. Her strengths proved more difficult to translate into movies. Her voice, powerful on stage, was too low for the sweet feminine roles that were popular at the time. And her looks, while striking, lacked the Hollywood gloss that those in charge of casting coveted.

The few roles she obtained mostly reinforced Stritch's belief that cinema was superficial. Jacobs describes her struggles during the filming of A Farewell to Arms, originally intended as a vehicle for Jennifer Jones. Noting how Stritch’s flirtations with her fellow actor Rock Hudson were likely tolerated by his studio head because Hudson kept his sexuality secret, and noting how Jones herself suffered from a depression Stritch attributed to being “miscast” in life, the author argues that Stritch’s distaste for Hollywood was not simply a preference for the stage but also for the authenticity she found easier to embody in live theater.

Context

• This film, based on Ernest Hemingway's novel, was a major Hollywood production. The story's themes of love and war required a delicate balance of emotional depth and romantic chemistry, which could be challenging for actors miscast in roles that did not suit their strengths.
• The entertainment industry at the time was notorious for its demanding nature and lack of support for mental health, which could intensify feelings of depression and being miscast.

Other Perspectives

• The perception of Hollywood gloss might be a matter of personal taste, and some actors appreciate the polish and production value that Hollywood brings to storytelling.
• The concept of "true identity" is complex and fluid; what may seem like a transformation or shedding of one's original self in Hollywood could also be interpreted as an evolution or expansion of one's identity.
• The success of other stage actors transitioning to film suggests that the issue might not have been with Stritch's abilities but rather with the types of roles she was offered or pursued in Hollywood.
• Cinema offers a variety of genres and roles that can be deeply complex and challenging, not all of which are superficial.
• There could have been an understanding or friendship between Stritch and Hudson that allowed for a more relaxed interaction, which the studio recognized and respected.
• Authenticity is subjective, and some actors find genuine expression through the medium of film, where they can explore the depths of a character over multiple takes and settings.

Taking Tv Roles For Stability, Committed To Live Performance

Jacobs describes how television gave Stritch another source of frustration. Despite acknowledging the financial benefits of taking on television roles, she found the medium's limitations frustrating. Jacobs notes how, from the quick filming schedules to the lack of audience interaction, television felt artistically stifling for Stritch, with its “canned laughter” and poor lighting. Even her occasional appearances on popular variety shows hosted by Ed Sullivan and Dean Martin reinforced her belief that performing for the cameras couldn’t hold a candle to the energy and immediacy of live theater.

Her brief stint as the lead in a sitcom in the early sixties, My Sister Eileen, though informed by her own experience of arriving in New York City as an ambitious young woman, did little to sway her. And an attempt to develop her own series, Nobody’s Perfect, with her spouse, John Bay, resulted in more personal friction than artistic satisfaction. Jacobs reveals how Stritch’s frustration stemmed partly from the constraints imposed on women in a medium where powerful producers and studio heads still dictated roles. In addition, by the 1970s, with the rise of feminism and changing social norms, her take-charge, witty, "working woman" persona had become less compelling, particularly in sitcoms, which favored housewife roles.

Other Perspectives

• The financial stability provided by television can allow artists to pursue more experimental and less commercially viable projects in their own time.
• Lack of audience interaction in television can be offset by the reach and impact TV has on a wider audience, potentially leading to a greater sense of connection with fans from diverse backgrounds and locations.
• Poor lighting in television can be a stylistic choice or a limitation of the era's technology, not necessarily a reflection of the medium's artistic potential.
• The collaborative nature of television, working with directors, writers, and other actors over a longer period, can create a different but equally rewarding artistic experience.
• Collaborative projects, especially between spouses, can often lead to personal growth and a deeper understanding of each other's creative processes, even if the project itself does not result in artistic satisfaction.
• The influence of powerful producers and studio heads on limiting roles for women might have been mitigated by the presence of female producers and writers who were beginning to emerge and create more diverse and substantial roles for women.
• The idea that sitcoms favored housewife roles exclusively overlooks the presence of successful shows during that era that featured strong, independent female characters, suggesting that there was still an appetite for such personas.

Navigating the Changing Broadway Landscape and Embracing Cabaret

Megamusicals Rise, Broadway Struggles

Jacobs analyzes how the changing landscape of Broadway in the 1980s and 90s played a significant role in Stritch’s struggle to secure starring roles. Stritch rejected the trend, finding herself at a crossroads. Having enjoyed only middling success on television, she felt increasingly that Broadway itself had passed her by, a sentiment solidified by watching younger performers, notably her old classmate Angela Lansbury, triumph in parts she wanted, like Madame Rose in Gypsy and Mrs. Lovett in Sondheim's Sweeney Todd.

The author charts Stritch’s recurring struggles with both finding work and navigating an industry increasingly hostile to the type of unscripted improvisation she’d honed to such effect in earlier decades. While Jacobs attributes those challenges to her alcohol dependence, she also suggests that they were compounded by changing ideas about how women should act, particularly those past “a certain age”. Even as Stritch renounced alcohol and embraced the structure and intimacy of AA, she held steadfastly to her signature "authenticity," her penchant for profanity and telling ribald stories at odds with a general cultural shift in the eighties toward a certain conservatism.

Practical Tips

• Use social media to directly engage with audiences and casting directors. Create content that demonstrates your range as a performer, such as posting monologues, singing clips, or dance routines, and use hashtags to gain visibility in your field. This can lead to a grassroots following that proves your draw to potential producers.
• Develop a portfolio of your work that highlights your improvisational skills in various contexts. Include video clips, testimonials, and case studies that demonstrate the effectiveness and versatility of your approach. Use this portfolio when approaching potential employers or collaborators to show how your improvisational style has successfully addressed different challenges.
• Create a virtual mentorship program that pairs older women with younger individuals in their field of interest. This not only provides the older women with an opportunity to impart their wisdom and experience but also helps to redefine their societal role as active contributors and mentors.
• Create a support buddy system by pairing up with someone who is also looking to make a lifestyle change, such as giving up alcohol. By committing to regular check-ins, you can hold each other accountable, share challenges, and celebrate successes together, creating a personalized support network that mirrors the communal aspect of larger support groups.

Finding Artistic Freedom in Cabaret Settings Like the Carlyle Hotel

Alexandra Jacobs documents Elaine Stritch’s retreat from traditional theater, finding a comfortable new home in cabaret settings, particularly the Café Carlyle. Jacobs describes how, following a long pursuit of Broadway stardom, Stritch discovered a different, more intimate way to perform in the plush, intimate setting. Having become known for embodying the "jaded New Yorker," she reveled in the relaxed format, singing standards in her signature raspy voice, telling stories from her life, and interacting directly with the audience, often ribbing celebrities, a practice that added further lore to her already larger-than-life persona. It was a perfect fit: a leading Broadway lady finding her true voice in a sophisticated, old-fashioned setting.

Jacobs argues that the Café Carlyle offered Stritch more than just a venue. It became, she suggests, a kind of surrogate home for someone who had long resisted the confines of domesticity, finding instead kinship, comfort, and camaraderie among a staff to whom she related with equal parts imperiousness and generosity. It was a safe space where she could be "free," a term that had resonated deeply with her since her initial arrival in New York City. By embracing this new format, Jacobs writes, Stritch not only created a lasting niche for herself in a changing industry but also found a way to control her destiny in an environment that enabled her to continue to defy convention and redefine expectations.

Practical Tips

• Host a themed performance dinner at your home to create an intimate artistic space. Transform your living room or backyard into a mini cabaret setting, inviting friends to perform or showcase their talents. This can be a potluck-style event where guests contribute a dish and a performance, fostering a sense of community and artistic freedom.
• Organize a virtual "intimate evening" with friends or colleagues where each person shares something personal, like a favorite poem, a song, or a short story they've written. Use a video conferencing platform with a comfortable, informal setting in your background to maintain the intimate vibe. Encourage participants to dress comfortably and bring their favorite beverage to simulate a cozy gathering.
• Create a podcast series that combines storytelling with music, where each episode focuses on a different theme from your life, accompanied by songs that complement the narrative. This format can attract listeners who appreciate the blend of personal tales and music, and it encourages a deeper emotional connection with your content.
• Embrace the local lingo by incorporating New York-specific phrases and slang into your daily vocabulary. This can help you channel the essence of a "jaded New Yorker" in a playful way. Start by listening to New York-based podcasts or radio shows to pick up on the unique expressions and then use them when conversing with friends or colleagues.
• Identify your personal "Café Carlyle" by exploring venues that align with your interests and strengths. Start by listing your passions and talents, then research local spots that host activities related to them. For instance, if you're an avid reader, look for book clubs or literary cafes in your area. If you're into performing, scout for open mic nights or community theaters. The goal is to find a place that resonates with your identity as the Café Carlyle did for Stritch.
• Host a small gathering or event in a space that is meaningful to you, like a community center or local park where you feel a strong sense of belonging. This can help you forge deeper connections with the place and the people who share it with you.
• Create a comfort zone at your workplace by personalizing your shared spaces with communal contributions. Encourage your team to bring in items that make the space feel more homey, such as plants, artwork, or even a shared music playlist. This collective effort can lead to a more welcoming and comfortable environment that promotes camaraderie.
• Experiment with a "role-reversal" day where you step into a role or environment that is the opposite of your norm to explore feelings of freedom. If you're usually a planner, let spontaneity guide your day; if you're often indoors, spend the day outside. This can help you break from routine and discover new aspects of freedom in your life.
• Build a personal brand by consistently sharing content related to your niche on social media platforms. Choose one aspect of your personality or expertise that you want to be known for, and create regular posts, videos, or podcasts around that theme. Engage with your audience by responding to comments and messages to strengthen your presence within your niche.
• Create your own rules for self-expression by starting a personal blog or vlog where you share your unique perspective on topics you're passionate about. This platform allows you to set your own standards and defy conventional expectations, much like performing in a cabaret allows for artistic freedom. For example, if you're interested in fashion, you could showcase unconventional outfits that mix different styles or eras, challenging the norms of the fashion industry.

Elaine Stritch's Later Career, Comeback, and Legacy

"At Liberty" Brought Success and Renewed Acclaim

Collaboration With John Lahr for a One-woman Show

Jacobs chronicles Elaine Stritch's remarkable late-career comeback with the development of “At Liberty”, a solo show that cemented her status as a theatrical legend, attracting acclaim from audiences and critics alike. Jacobs details how the show, conceived by John Schreiber, a longtime admirer of Stritch's work whom she'd met in 1968 and who had attended the Follies concert, combined Stritch’s sharp wit, her candid self-assessment, and powerful renditions of classic show tunes to create a uniquely intimate theatrical experience. Jacobs suggests the production's success wasn't just due to Stritch’s legendary personality. It was also a testament to the collaborative genius of playwright and critic John Lahr, the son of Bert Lahr of Wizard of Oz fame, who understood, like Stephen Sondheim and Harold Prince had before him, how to use her strengths to create a truly effective, and moving, dramatic arc.

Jacobs writes that the production not only highlighted Stritch’s storied career but also her ongoing struggles with alcoholism, love, and family, offering an unvarnished and honest look at an exceptional life. The themes resonated with audiences who viewed her not just as an entertaining personality. but also a figure of resilience and grit, her ability to self-deprecate even as she commanded the stage offering a refreshing antidote to the more scripted, publicity-controlled performances prevalent then. Jacobs notes it helped too that the production's name implied "freedom" in a moment of heightened national anxiety following the terrorist attacks of 9/11, a serendipitous confluence of events that further highlighted Stritch’s enduring charm and cemented her relevance to a new generation.

Context

• The show premiered in 2001, a time when audiences were seeking authentic and relatable stories. Stritch's candidness and vulnerability resonated with viewers looking for genuine human experiences.
• The concept of an "intimate theatrical experience" refers to the way the show was designed to create a personal connection between Stritch and her audience. This was achieved through the combination of storytelling, music, and candid reflection, making the audience feel as though they were part of a private conversation.
• John Lahr is a renowned theater critic and author, known for his deep understanding of theatrical dynamics and character development. His expertise in these areas likely contributed to shaping the narrative and emotional depth of "At Liberty."
• Stritch's willingness to share her vulnerabilities on stage resonated with audiences, offering a sense of connection and understanding, particularly in a post-9/11 cultural landscape where themes of resilience were especially poignant.
• Stritch's ability to remain relevant and captivating in her later years challenged societal perceptions of aging, particularly in the entertainment industry, where youth is often prioritized.
• After the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, the United States experienced a period of heightened national anxiety and insecurity. The attacks led to widespread fear and uncertainty, influencing cultural and artistic expressions as people sought comfort and meaning.
• During the early 2000s, many theatrical and entertainment performances were heavily scripted and polished, often prioritizing image and perfection over authenticity. This trend was partly due to the rise of reality TV and media scrutiny, which encouraged performers to maintain a controlled public persona.

Tony Award Win For "At Liberty": A Theatrical Icon's Candid Storytelling

Stritch’s career reached its apex when she won the 2002 Tony Award for Special Theatrical Event for her work in At Liberty. Jacobs details the ceremony, emphasizing how Stritch's acceptance speech, notoriously exceeding its allotted time and defying efforts by the band to signal her to exit the stage, encapsulated the performer’s long journey and unapologetically defiant personality. The author notes how the speech, with its insistence on thanking everyone involved in the production and its off-the-cuff remarks about “comfortable shoes” to a would-be industry ingénue, demonstrated Stritch's mastery of live performance, not just commanding an audience but also manipulating them in a manner that left them cheering.

Jacobs argues that winning the accolade validated Stritch’s decision to embrace a more personal, revealing form of storytelling. The success of At Liberty, she writes, established her not only as a theatrical icon but also as a cultural figure, one whose struggles and triumphs resonated deeply with audiences. The show's honest portrayal of addiction, love, and the realities of aging challenged stereotypes, demonstrating that a woman in her seventies could be both vulnerable and fierce, imperfect and exceptional. It helped too that Stritch, always an astute assessor of social currents, leveraged the moment, her “forget fear” message echoing a larger national sentiment of strength and resilience following a devastating tragedy.

Practical Tips

• Develop a "Special Theatrical Event" category for your community theater or local arts festival. This encourages local artists to create unique performances that don't fit traditional theater molds. Work with the organizers to establish criteria and promote this new category, providing a platform for innovative and diverse theatrical expressions.
• Create a personal mantra that reinforces your right to take your time and space, and silently repeat it when you feel rushed. This mental tool can help you stay focused and composed when external pressures are trying to hurry you, much like the speaker who continued her speech despite cues to leave the stage.
• Develop a signature speech style by practicing public speaking with a focus on authenticity and defiance. Start by speaking at small local events or gatherings, focusing on topics you're passionate about and that reflect your journey. Your unique style will resonate more as you gain confidence in sharing your unapologetic self.
• Use social media to publicly acknowledge people who have helped you with your achievements. This not only spreads positivity but also encourages others to do the same, creating a ripple effect of gratitude. After completing a project, post a thank-you message on LinkedIn or Twitter, tagging the individuals or teams involved and briefly mentioning their contributions.
• Use humor in everyday conversations to break the ice and connect with new acquaintances. By making light-hearted comments about common experiences, such as the quest for comfortable shoes, you can create a relaxed atmosphere that encourages open dialogue. For instance, when meeting someone in a professional setting, a comment like "I hope the dress code includes comfy shoes, or we might all need a coffee break for our feet!" can serve as a conversation starter and show your approachable side.
• Record yourself telling a story and critique your use of pauses and emphasis. Analyzing your own speech patterns can help you understand where to insert dramatic pauses or emphasize certain words to captivate listeners, much like a skilled performer controls the stage.
• Create a one-person show or performance piece about a significant event in your life. By crafting a narrative around a personal experience and presenting it in a creative format, you can connect with an audience on a deeper level. For example, if you've overcome a particular challenge or have a unique hobby, develop a script or storyboard that highlights your journey and share it through local open mic nights or community theater programs.
• Start a blog or social media page dedicated to sharing stories and experiences of older adults in your community. By creating a platform where the elderly can share their life lessons, achievements, and challenges, you're providing a space that can help reshape perceptions about aging. For example, feature a weekly post about a senior who's learning a new skill or leading a community project, showcasing their ongoing growth and vitality.
• Create a photo or video project that captures images or stories of resilience in your community. Reach out to local businesses, schools, or community centers to collaborate and display the project. This visual representation can serve as a powerful reminder of the collective resilience and can inspire others to contribute their own stories of strength.

Embracing the "Great Lady" Persona and Cultural Relevance

Accepting Supporting Roles, Notably In "30 Rock"

In her later years, Stritch embraced a new kind of “leading lady” role, one more in line with a modern idea of the “silver fox” or "cougar," accepting supporting roles, notably on the hit sitcom 30 Rock created by Tina Fey, which itself showcased the more nuanced roles available to women in a world where traditional television was being disrupted by online streaming, and where "reality" tv was blurring the lines between artifice and authenticity. Jacobs emphasizes how, even as she seemed to settle into “grand dame” territory, Stritch maintained a certain feistiness, refusing to become a parody, continuing to challenge the stereotypes of aging.

Jacobs tells how Stritch, while generally admiring the young Fey, chafed at being directed by Woody Allen, the auteur who cast her in two of his movies: first September in 1988 and then Small Time Crooks, noting how she pushed back on script changes and costume decisions. Yet, despite her occasional frustrations and a mounting sense of nostalgia for the theater world of her youth, Stritch, Jacobs argues, also relished being part of a different, more contemporary kind of ensemble, offering the younger performers that peculiarly Stritchish blend of salty wisdom and playful mentorship.

Context

• Elaine Stritch played the recurring role of Colleen Donaghy, the mother of Alec Baldwin's character, Jack Donaghy. Her character was known for her sharp wit and domineering personality, adding a layer of complexity and humor to the show.
• The disruption caused by digital platforms led to increased competition, encouraging networks to take creative risks and develop shows that appealed to more diverse audiences, including women seeking relatable content.
• By the time Stritch worked with Allen, he had already become a controversial figure due to various personal scandals. This might have influenced her feelings about working with him, adding another layer to her discomfort.
• Woody Allen is known for his distinctive directorial approach, often involving improvisation and last-minute changes, which can be challenging for actors who prefer a more structured script.
• Working with younger actors in a contemporary setting can offer veteran performers a chance to share their experience and learn new techniques, fostering a mutually beneficial environment.
• Known for her sharp wit and candid personality, Stritch's "salty wisdom" refers to her ability to offer blunt, honest advice, often laced with humor and a no-nonsense attitude, which was both endearing and instructive to younger colleagues.

Vibrant in Cabaret, Performing Into Her 80s

Elaine Stritch continued to perform well into her eighties, finding a steady home in cabaret at the Carlyle. Jacobs describes how her shows embraced the spontaneity and intimacy of the venue, blending stories with beloved standards, creating a unique and utterly captivating theatrical event celebrated by fans and reviewers alike. Jacobs highlights how Stritch’s enduring appeal lay in her ability to connect profoundly with audiences. Despite the limitations imposed by her advancing years and the challenges of diabetes, she continued to command the stage, her husky voice honed to perfection, her tales delivered with a seasoned blend of wit and self-awareness.

Jacobs notes how Stritch’s late-career success was particularly impressive within the context of an industry increasingly dominated by youth and spectacle. Her presence in the Carlyle attracted a younger group of fans, who appreciated her unvarnished honesty and effortless command of an audience. Even during memory lapses, she turned them into opportunities for improvisation, drawing the crowd into her universe, her vulnerability becoming a source of connection rather than embarrassment.

Practical Tips

• Volunteer to perform at community events, senior centers, or local charities. This not only gives you a chance to practice your performance skills but also contributes positively to your community. You might offer to sing at a local fundraiser or entertain at a neighborhood festival, gaining experience and making connections along the way.
• Develop a signature element for your communications, such as a personal storytelling style or a creative sign-off in emails. For example, if you're known for your humor, include a light-hearted joke or anecdote relevant to the topic at hand. This will make your interactions memorable and engaging, much like a captivating show.
• Practice mirroring body language during conversations to create a subconscious bond with others. When you subtly mimic the gestures and posture of the person you're speaking with, it can lead to a deeper connection as people often feel more at ease with those who seem similar to themselves.
• Start a blog or vlog series sharing stories and insights from your life, focusing on how your experiences have shaped you. This mirrors the way Stritch used her seasoned wit; your blog or vlog could feature tales of overcoming personal challenges or humorous anecdotes that highlight your resilience and character.
• Start a "Career Evolution Journal" where you document your professional growth, focusing on skills and knowledge acquired over time rather than just early achievements. Regularly update this journal with new experiences, courses taken, or projects completed. This practice will help you track your progress and remind you that your value in the industry increases with the wisdom and expertise you accumulate over the years.
• Turn a conversation slip-up into a storytelling prompt by saying, "That reminds me of a funny story," and segue into an anecdote that relates to the topic at hand. This not only covers the lapse but also engages your listener with a personal touch.

Bequeathing a Record of Authenticity and Excellence

Inspiring People With Her Skills, Honesty, and Perseverance

Jacobs argues that Elaine Stritch made an enduring impact on American theater and culture. Beyond her accomplishments on stage, screen, and television, Jacobs suggests she is remembered for her unflinching honesty, a trait that distinguished her from the beginning, when she was a precocious child commanding the attention of adults in a bustling Detroit household, all the way to tabloid writers documenting her romantic affairs and her more notorious habits. It was a quality amplified further by the vulnerability she showed in performances later on, as well as in unscripted moments she couldn’t help dominating, like the infamous acceptance speech for the Tony she won for At Liberty.

Her professional journey, with its highs and lows, serves as a testament to persistence and resilience, Jacobs emphasizes. Stritch faced rejection, battled addiction, and challenged expectations, but she never gave up, she never stopped entertaining, aiming to delight her audience. Stritch’s life demonstrated that a woman could be both a "career girl" and a “grand dame” – imperfect and impressive – without compromising her authenticity.

Context

• Stritch was famous for her distinctive style, often performing in a simple white shirt and black tights, which became her signature look. This minimalist approach highlighted her focus on performance and authenticity.
• Her numerous accolades, including Tony and Emmy Awards, reflect her success in captivating audiences and critics alike, underscoring her commitment to entertainment.

Other Perspectives

• The term "enduring impact" could be subjective, as the perception of her influence may vary among theater professionals, historians, and audiences, with some possibly arguing that other figures have had a more profound or lasting effect.
• The emphasis on her honesty from a young age could be an example of retrospective glorification, where certain traits are romanticized after a person has gained fame.
• Vulnerability in performances and unscripted moments could be interpreted as a professional technique to connect with the audience rather than a direct reflection of personal honesty.
• The terms "career girl" and "grand dame" carry cultural and historical connotations that may not resonate with or be inclusive of all women's experiences, potentially limiting the applicability of this example as a universal model.

Elaine Stritch's Influence on Stage Productions, Unique Personality, Humor, and Unforgettable Performances Resonate With Audiences

Jacobs concludes by analyzing the lasting impact of Elaine Stritch in musical theater and on a larger American culture. While her performances in shows like "Company" and "Sail Away" remain touchstones, the author argues she's additionally recalled for embodying a unique and powerful, even revolutionary, female archetype: the witty, independent, and self-assured, albeit also frequently lonely, woman who defied convention and carved her own path. She challenged expectations and pushed boundaries with both behavior and candor long prior to this being possible, or even thinkable, for most women in her milieu; her struggles with, and confessions about, addiction to both alcohol and performing resonated deeply and continue to inspire fascination and admiration.

Stritch’s fierce devotion to excellence, Jacobs argues, coupled with her innate intelligence and her dedication to honesty, allowed her to transcend a sometimes difficult reputation and create a lasting body of work that continues to be studied and celebrated, particularly in the context of a world where musical theater itself is experiencing a renaissance, the line between concert and play and personal confessional more porous than ever as technology blurs even further ideas of private and public. And though her career path was often unpredictable and at intervals punctuated by personal turbulence, Jacobs concludes, Stritch ultimately exited with a bang, her "signature bravado" masking an almost childlike yearning for recognition and love.

Context

• A musical by Noël Coward that opened in 1961. Stritch played the lead role of Mimi Paragon, a brassy cruise director. Her performance was noted for its comedic timing and strong vocal delivery, helping to solidify her reputation as a leading lady in musical theater.
• The combination of wit, independence, and self-assurance, along with loneliness, reflects a nuanced character type that resonates with audiences due to its authenticity and relatability, often highlighting the personal sacrifices made for professional success.
• Her openness about personal struggles, such as her battle with alcoholism, was rare for public figures, especially women, during much of her career. This honesty helped destigmatize such issues and paved the way for more open discussions in the public sphere.
• The idea of being "addicted to performing" suggests a deep, perhaps compulsive, need to be on stage, which can be both a source of fulfillment and stress for performers, highlighting the intense emotional highs and lows of a theatrical career.
• Elaine Stritch's career spanned several decades, during which she became a prominent figure in both theater and television. Her work included collaborations with renowned composers and playwrights, such as Stephen Sondheim, which contributed to her reputation for excellence.
• The evolving cultural landscape, with greater emphasis on diversity and representation, has led to a reevaluation of past works, including Stritch's, highlighting their relevance and impact on current societal issues.
• Stritch faced significant health issues, including diabetes, which she managed publicly, adding to the turbulence in her life and career.