Critics were surprised that I was convincing as the southern Clarey in Steel Magnolias. The bias is still there but not as much. - Olympia Dukakis

I believe that in the theater you really can't do anything that doesn't have some political consequence. My work has been about finding my own voice and a way to express myself.

If you are convinced this is what you want to do, don't be afraid, go forward. You have to know what you want and go for it. Don't let the money be an issue. You can always pay your bills if you're willing to work.

It took my family a long time to realize that something was wrong. My brother and I were in complete denial; we loved our mother so much and we didn’t want to admit that her health was deteriorating.