Harold Russell Scott Jr.
(September 6, 1935 – July 16, 2006)
Breaking Barriers in American Theatre
He was a trailblazing figure in American theatre, known for his multifaceted career as a stage director, actor, and educator. His legacy extends beyond his artistic talents, as he played a pivotal role in breaking racial barriers within the American theatrical landscape.
Early Life and Education
Born in Morristown, New Jersey, Harold Russell Scott Jr. hailed from a family where his mother was a housewife, and his father, Harold Russell Scott Sr., served as a general practitioner. Scott’s journey into theatre began with a solid educational foundation. He received his education at Phillips Exeter Academy and Harvard University, which provided him with a well-rounded background for his future in the arts.
A Versatile Performer
Harold Russell Scott Jr. made a name for himself initially as a stage actor. His dynamic performances, characterized by his electrifying stage presence and commanding voice, set him apart. Notably, he graced the stage in Jean Genet’s “The Blacks” and garnered acclaim for his role in the premiere of Edward Albee’s “The Death of Bessie Smith.” His talent earned him the prestigious Obie Award for acting in Jean Genet’s “Deathwatch” in 1959, solidifying his reputation as a formidable actor. Scott’s Broadway appearances included notable productions like “The Cool World.”
Collaborations and Artistic Contributions
Throughout his career, Harold Russell Scott Jr. collaborated with prominent figures in the theatrical world. Elia Kazan selected him as an original member of the Repertory Theater of Lincoln Center, where he showcased his acting prowess in works by Arthur Miller and Thomas Middleton. José Quintero cast him in productions of Thomas Middleton’s “Changeling” and Eugene O’Neill’s “Marco Millions.”
In 1984, Scott returned to Off-Broadway to play the role of Brutus in a modern adaptation of Shakespeare’s “Caesar” with the Riverside Shakespeare Company under the direction of W. Stuart McDowell. Scott’s contributions to the stage were marked by his innovative approach and dedication to the craft.
Directorial Achievements
Harold Russell Scott Jr. transitioned to become an accomplished stage director on Broadway and Off-Broadway. He directed groundbreaking productions, including “The Mighty Gents” featuring Morgan Freeman on Broadway in 1978 and “Paul Robeson” with Avery Brooks, which graced Broadway stages twice, in 1988 and 1995. Notably, Scott directed the twenty-fifth-anniversary production of “A Raisin in the Sun,” starring Esther Rolle. This production garnered nine National Theater Awards from the NAACP, including the best director category, and was filmed for public television’s “Great Performances.”
Educational Contributions
Scott’s influence extended to the realm of education, where he played a vital role in shaping aspiring artists. He served as the head of the directing program at the Mason Gross School of the Arts, Rutgers, and the State University of New Jersey. His commitment to nurturing young talent was a testament to his passion for the arts.
Impact Beyond the Stage
In addition to his educational endeavors, Scott also taught acting classes at the Equity summer-stock theater The Peterborough Players in Peterborough, NH. His students remembered his unique and impactful training methods, marked by his intense, insightful, and caring personality. Scott’s influence extended to various aspects of the theatrical world.
Legacy and Final Production
Harold Russell Scott Jr.’s legacy was defined by his ability to break racial barriers and his unwavering dedication to the arts. He directed his final play, “Yellowman,” in February 2006 at the Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park. This production delved into the complex issue of black-on-black prejudice, reflecting Scott’s commitment to addressing significant social themes through theatre. Significantly, his appointment as the artistic director of the Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park in 1973 marked a historic moment, as he became the first African-American to hold such a position in a major regional theatre. Scott’s contributions to American theatre left an indelible mark, inspiring future generations of artists and directors to follow in his groundbreaking footsteps.