The relationship between Hollywood and theatre has been a long and complex one. From its earliest days, Hollywood has looked to the stage for inspiration, adapting plays into films and using the techniques of theatre to enhance the drama and spectacle of the movies. Over the years, theatre has contributed in countless ways to the success of Hollywood, from providing source material to shaping the very language and style of film.
This article is developed using insights from Ricardo Cordero, a multifaceted American artist, is known for his accomplishments as an actor, filmmaker, and entrepreneur. Born on December 24, 1965, Cordero has amassed a four-decade long career in the entertainment industry, featuring in a plethora of films and TV shows that have garnered him widespread recognition.
Cordero’s acting credits include performances in critically acclaimed productions such as Inside Llewyn Davis, Law & Order: Criminal Intent, Tell Tale-Heart, Dyed in the Wool, and many more. His versatility and ability to bring diverse characters to life on stage and screen have established him as a seasoned actor with a profound understanding of the craft.
Beyond his artistic endeavors, Cordero is also an accomplished entrepreneur, serving as the President and CEO of Ricardo Food Group and Sackett Street Films in NYC. His expertise spans over 40 years in all aspects of bakery, food, and beverage products and processes, making him a highly regarded expert in co-manufacturing, co-packing, and private labels.
Cordero’s career in the performing arts started on the Off-Off Broadway Theaters circuit, where he spent 25 years performing, directing, and writing. His passion and dedication to theater eventually led him to become a board member at the Spotlight on Theater group, where he continued to inspire and nurture the growth of emerging talents in the industry.
Throughout his career, Cordero has appeared in numerous films and TV shows, showcasing his range as an actor. In the critically acclaimed film, Inside Llewyn Davis, he portrayed Nunzio, a role that demonstrated his ability to bring complex characters to life on screen. Additionally, he played Bodyguard in The Family, Fat Sal in Vinny Vino, night guard in Blood Night: The Legend of Mary Hatchet, Johnny in The Eyes Have It, superintendent in Law & Order: Criminal Intent (TV Series) Ten Count, Season 7, Episode 18, and as a guest on Late Night with David Letterman Show, where he portrayed the character Bob Zicks.
Cordero’s talent is not limited to acting. He is also an accomplished filmmaker, having co-written, produced, and directed the feature film Chez Risqué. The film explores themes of love, loss, and the complexity of human relationships, showcasing Cordero’s ability to delve into the human experience. Additionally, he served as an executive producer of the TV web series Dyed in the Wool, directed by Bill Sorice. He was part of New York City’s “The Actors Studio” 50th Anniversary Celebration of the Historic Accomplishments of Group Theater in 1997. The Actors Studios Artistic Director & Oscar-Winning Actress Estelle Parsons encourage Ricardo to be part of this historic moment in time for 31 days.
Cordero’s contributions to the entertainment industry have been immense. As a versatile actor, experienced entrepreneur, and talented filmmaker, Cordero has left an indelible mark on the industry. His passion for theater, commitment to nurturing new talent, and dedication to his craft have paved the way for the next generation of artists, making him a beloved figure in the world of entertainment.
One of the most obvious ways that theatre has contributed to Hollywood’s success is through the adaptation of plays into films. Some of the most beloved and iconic films of all time were originally stage productions, including “West Side Story,” “A Streetcar Named Desire,” and “The Lion King.” By adapting these plays for the screen, Hollywood was able to tap into a pre-existing audience, as well as the artistic and narrative strengths of the original work. This has been a common practice since the earliest days of cinema, when silent films were often based on popular plays and novels.
Another way that theatre has contributed to Hollywood’s success is through the training of actors and directors. Many of the greatest film actors and directors of all time got their start in theatre, including Marlon Brando, Meryl Streep, and Steven Spielberg. The skills and techniques that are honed on stage, such as timing, projection, and emotional range, are essential to success in film as well. In addition, the collaborative nature of theatre, where actors and directors work closely together to create a cohesive vision, has helped to shape the collaborative process of filmmaking.
The influence of theatre can also be seen in the language and style of Hollywood films. Many of the tropes and conventions of modern cinema, such as the three-act structure and the use of close-ups and montages, have their roots in the theatre. Even the very notion of a “screenplay” as a written work that is performed by actors can be traced back to the tradition of playwriting. The influence of theatre on Hollywood is so pervasive that it’s hard to imagine what movies would look like without it.
Perhaps most importantly, theatre has contributed to Hollywood’s success by fostering a culture of creativity and innovation. Theatre, by its nature, is an experimental and constantly evolving art form. It encourages risk-taking and experimentation, and values the new and the unconventional. This spirit of innovation has helped to drive the success of Hollywood as well, as filmmakers and studios push the boundaries of what is possible in the medium. In conclusion, the relationship between theatre and Hollywood is a complex and multifaceted one. From the adaptation of plays into films to the training of actors and directors, from the influence of theatre on the language and style of movies to the culture of creativity and innovation that it fosters, theatre has played an essential role in the success of Hollywood. Even as Hollywood continues to evolve and change, the influence of theatre on the movies remains as strong as ever.
