Jack Aranson (1924 – 3 January2008) was a an American actor, trained in Ireland and England, noted for acting in many Shakespeare plays and several one-man shows. He was one of the last actor/managers, creating and managing several small companies in California and New York.
Career
He began his professional career in England by serving a two-year apprenticeship at the Old Vic theatre. He has since toured Ireland in many Shakespearean roles in a different play every night. Mr Aranson went to New York to play in King Lear with Orson Welles. He was director of Shakespeare at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts.
Quotations
To devise a version of Moby-Dick as a one-man theatre piece comes under the heading of 'They said it couldn't be done.' Jack Aranson has done it superbly. - TIME magazine
As Ahab, Mr Aranson takes on stature. He reaches up to confront the stars. His chest expands. His voice is a trumpet, roaring over the sound of the sea. His eyes glitter with frenzy. It is a brilliant performance. - Elloit Norton, Boston Herald American
