Marcel Marceau
- Born:
- March 22, 1923, Strasbourg, France
- Died:
- September 22, 2007, Cahors, France
- Nationality:
- French
- Profession(s):
- Mime, Actor, Writer
Early Life and Education
- Born Marcel Mangel to Jewish parents.
- Changed his name to Marceau during World War II to avoid detection by the Nazis.
- Served in the French Resistance during World War II, helping to rescue Jewish children.
- Studied dramatic arts at the Charles Dullin School of Dramatic Art in Paris.
Career and Major Achievements
- Developed his signature character, "Bip the Clown," in 1947.
- Founded the Compagnie de Mime Marcel Marceau in 1949, which became France's only mime company.
- Toured extensively around the world, performing for audiences of all ages.
- Starred in several films, including "Professor Bip" (1958).
- Established the École Internationale de Mimodrame de Paris Marcel Marceau in 1978.
- Received numerous awards and honors, including the Legion of Honour and the National Order of Merit.
Notable Works
| Title | Year | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Professor Bip | 1958 | Professor Bip |
| Silent Movie | 1976 | Himself |
| Barbarella | 1968 | Professor Ping |
Legacy and Impact
Marcel Marceau, widely considered the most influential mime artist of the 20th century, revitalized the art of mime and brought it to a global audience. His character, Bip, became a symbol of human resilience and vulnerability. His teachings and performances inspired generations of performers and continue to shape the field of physical theatre.