I think some of our most talented people are not going to pick the arts as a way that they're going to spend their lives. Anna Deavere Smith artlivepeople Change image and share on social
I am interested in personal stories because that's when people become expressive, spontaneous and heartfelt. Anna Deavere Smith expressiveheartfeltinterest Change image and share on social
Suddenly in high school, I'm in a predominantly Jewish atmosphere. Jewish people were my gate to white America. Anna Deavere Smith americaatmospheregate Change image and share on social
I see myself as not a typical theater person, but a person who uses the theater as a place to meet people and explore ideas. Anna Deavere Smith exploreideameet Change image and share on social
You know, interesting minds usually do hold more than one idea at a time. Anna Deavere Smith holdideainterest Change image and share on social
I think we need leadership that helps us remember that part of what we are about is caring about more than the person right next to us, but the folks across the way. Anna Deavere Smith carefolkhelp Change image and share on social
If I do three interviews in a day, I can be exhausted, because the process of hearing everyone requires that I empty out myself. While I'm listening, my own judgments and prejudices certainly come up. But I know I won't get anything unless I get those things out of the way. Anna Deavere Smith dayemptyexhaust share on social
I think that art is supposed to be ahead of the times. Anna Deavere Smith aheadartsuppose Change image and share on social
I don't talk a lot when I interview. My job is to get out of the way. Anna Deavere Smith interviewjoblot Change image and share on social
To live your life well, and have respect for what came before or after - there's a strong respect for that in African culture. Anna Deavere Smith africanculturelife Change image and share on social
