Alice Playten
Birth Place: New York, NY, USA
Latest News on Alice Playten:
VIDEO: Recap the Greatest Stars of FUNNY GIRL (Aug 15, 2021)
New and Upcoming Releases For the Week of March 1 - ONCE ON THIS ISLAND Orange Vinyl, and More! (Mar 3, 2021)
BWW Review: Encores! Off-Center Brings Back Maria Irene Fornes and Rev. Al Carmines' Fresh and Vibrant PROMENADE (Jul 15, 2019)
VIDEO: Recap the Greatest Stars of FUNNY GIRL (Aug 15, 2021)
New and Upcoming Releases For the Week of March 1 - ONCE ON THIS ISLAND Orange Vinyl, and More! (Mar 3, 2021)
BWW Review: Encores! Off-Center Brings Back Maria Irene Fornes and Rev. Al Carmines' Fresh and Vibrant PROMENADE (Jul 15, 2019)
BIO
Alice Playten was an American actress and singer known for her versatile talents on stage and screen. Born on August 28, 1947, in Brooklyn, New York, Playten began her career as a child actor, appearing in numerous commercials and television shows. She made her Broadway debut in 1958 at the age of 11, in the musical "Gypsy," playing the role of Baby June.
Playten continued to work in theater throughout her teenage years, appearing in productions such as "Hello, Dolly!" and "Henry, Sweet Henry." In 1971, she received critical acclaim for her performance in the Off-Broadway musical "The Me Nobody Knows," which explored the lives of inner-city children.
In 1972, Playten returned to Broadway in the musical "Seesaw," which earned her a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actress in a Musical. She went on to star in several other Broadway productions, including "Oliver!," "Henry Sweet Henry," and "Pal Joey."
In addition to her work on stage, Playten also appeared in numerous films and television shows. She had a recurring role on the popular sitcom "The Days and Nights of Molly Dodd," and appeared in films such as "Legend," "I.Q.," and "My Favorite Year."
Playten was also a talented voice actress, lending her voice to several animated series, including "Doug," "The Magic School Bus," and "Courage the Cowardly Dog." She also provided the voice of the Cheshire Cat in the 1982 animated film "Alice in Wonderland."
Throughout her career, Playten remained active in theater, both on and off Broadway. She appeared in several productions at the Public Theater, including "The Tempest" and "In the Summer House." She also starred in the musical "Carrie" during its original 1988 run, and later appeared in a concert version of the show in 2012.
Playten's last Broadway credit was in the 2006 production of "Caroline, or Change," in which she played several roles. She passed away on June 25, 2011, at the age of 63, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances and a reputation as one of the most versatile actresses of her generation.
Photos
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STAGE CREDITS
[Off-Broadway]
Original Off-Broadway Production, 2003
Grandma Gellman
Grandma Gellman
[Off-Broadway]
Original Off-Broadway Production, 1993
Lady Bird Johnson/Marie Eisenhower
[Off-Broadway]
1991
Agnes (Agnes)/ Girl (Eulogy for Mister Hamm)/ Sherri (Lucky Nurse)
[Off-Broadway]
1981
Philomena Rostovich/ Dame Ellen Terry [Replacement]
[Off-Broadway]
Original Off-Broadway Production, 1970
Ingrid/ Alice [Replacement]
Awards and Nominations
winner
Obie Awards - 1994 - Performance
Alice Playten, First Lady Suite
Drama Desk Awards - 1988 - Outstanding Featured Actress - Play
Alice Playten, Spoils of War
winner
Obie Awards - 1973 - Distinguished Performances
Alice Playten, Lemmings
winner
Theatre World Awards - 1968 - Performance
Alice Playten, Henry, Sweet Henry
Tony Awards - 1968 - Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Musical
Alice Playten, Henry, Sweet Henry
Videos
STAGE TUBE: Watch Lost Documentary Footage from SONDHEIM: A MUSICAL TRIBUTE
by Nicole Rosky - Sep 23, 2013
News
VIDEO: Recap the Greatest Stars of FUNNY GIRL
Though Barbra Streisand remains Broadway's most beloved Fanny, plenty of legends have taken on the role over the last six decades.
Though Barbra Streisand remains Broadway's most beloved Fanny, plenty of legends have taken on the role over the last six decades.
New and Upcoming Releases For the Week of March 1 - ONCE ON THIS ISLAND Orange Vinyl, and More!
This week's list includes a new limited edition orange vinyl of the 2017 revival cast recording of Once on This Island, as well as a purple vinyl edition of the 1964 cast recording of My Fair Lady. Plus, the latest volume of The Untold Stories of Broadway by Jennifer Ashley Tepper is now available!
This week's list includes a new limited edition orange vinyl of the 2017 revival cast recording of Once on This Island, as well as a purple vinyl edition of the 1964 cast recording of My Fair Lady. Plus, the latest volume of The Untold Stories of Broadway by Jennifer Ashley Tepper is now available!
BWW Review: Encores! Off-Center Brings Back Maria Irene Fornes and Rev. Al Carmines' Fresh and Vibrant PROMENADE
Through the leadership of Reverend Bernard Scott, Greenwich Village's Judson Memorial Church became a center for emerging artists during the 1950s, welcoming the experimental, the avant-garde and the political to have their work seen without fear of censorship.
Through the leadership of Reverend Bernard Scott, Greenwich Village's Judson Memorial Church became a center for emerging artists during the 1950s, welcoming the experimental, the avant-garde and the political to have their work seen without fear of censorship.
Exclusive Podcast: 'Behind the Curtain' Chats with Broadway Alum and Big Screen Chava, Neva Small
Everyone's favorite little bird, little Chavala, Neva Small, sits down with Rob and Kevin to look back on her fabulous career both onstage and on the screen. Neva takes us back to the filming of the immortal FIDDLER ON THE ROOF film, as well as how her career as a child actress led to her Broadway appearances in SOMETHING MORE, HENRY, SWEET HENRY, THE IMPOSSIBLE YEARS, FRANK MERRIWELL, and SOMETHING'S AFOOT.
Everyone's favorite little bird, little Chavala, Neva Small, sits down with Rob and Kevin to look back on her fabulous career both onstage and on the screen. Neva takes us back to the filming of the immortal FIDDLER ON THE ROOF film, as well as how her career as a child actress led to her Broadway appearances in SOMETHING MORE, HENRY, SWEET HENRY, THE IMPOSSIBLE YEARS, FRANK MERRIWELL, and SOMETHING'S AFOOT.
Ribbons Down Their Backs: The Supporting Ladies of HELLO, DOLLY!
Hello, Dolly! is one of the most famous Broadway star vehicles, and no production has yet made that clearer than the one with Bette Midler's name floating high atop the marquee (and the 'sold out' sign). But what about the supporting ladies that fill the stage alongside the whirlwind Dolly Levi?
Hello, Dolly! is one of the most famous Broadway star vehicles, and no production has yet made that clearer than the one with Bette Midler's name floating high atop the marquee (and the 'sold out' sign). But what about the supporting ladies that fill the stage alongside the whirlwind Dolly Levi?
Rumor Patrol: Cindy Adams Says Carol Channing Possible for HELLO, DOLLY Revival!?
Despite firm denials from both press rep Rick Miramontez and producer Scott Rudin, as well as the star's age (95), the NY Post's Cindy Adams insists she has heard rumors that Carol Channing could be up for playing the matinee 'Dolly'
Despite firm denials from both press rep Rick Miramontez and producer Scott Rudin, as well as the star's age (95), the NY Post's Cindy Adams insists she has heard rumors that Carol Channing could be up for playing the matinee 'Dolly'
FLASH FRIDAY: Celebrate Earth Day with Eddie Korbich and SEUSSICAL's 'The Lorax Song'
During pre-Broadway tryouts, the talented performer sang an adaptation of Dr. Seuss' plea for the environment.
During pre-Broadway tryouts, the talented performer sang an adaptation of Dr. Seuss' plea for the environment.
STAGE TUBE: Watch Lost Documentary Footage from SONDHEIM: A MUSICAL TRIBUTE
'Sondheim: A Musical Tribute' was the title given to a benefit staged in March 1973. American Musical and Dramatic Academy and the National Hemophilia Foundation first wanted to honor Harold Prince, but he declined, so they chose Stephen Sondheim. Sondheim thought it would be 'merely a dinner,' but it was actually a full-scale production with 33 performers and a 30-piece orchestra, staged on the set of the then-running 'A Little Night Music' at the Shubert Theatre. Below, check out footage from a short documentary that was made about the show.
'Sondheim: A Musical Tribute' was the title given to a benefit staged in March 1973. American Musical and Dramatic Academy and the National Hemophilia Foundation first wanted to honor Harold Prince, but he declined, so they chose Stephen Sondheim. Sondheim thought it would be 'merely a dinner,' but it was actually a full-scale production with 33 performers and a 30-piece orchestra, staged on the set of the then-running 'A Little Night Music' at the Shubert Theatre. Below, check out footage from a short documentary that was made about the show.
Shlemiel the First Plays Jack H. Skirball Center
The acclaimed 1994 world premiere of the Klezmer musical Shlemiel the First, was at Boston's American Repertory Theater (ART).
The acclaimed 1994 world premiere of the Klezmer musical Shlemiel the First, was at Boston's American Repertory Theater (ART).
Review - Broadway Originals
'I want you to know that the most exciting part I've received recently is my new knee.'
'I want you to know that the most exciting part I've received recently is my new knee.'
Alice Playten Passes Away at 63
Actress Alice Playten, whose career spanned nearly five decades in some of Broadway and television's most recognizable productions, passed away this morning from heart failure at Sloan Kettering Hospital. She was 63 years old.
Actress Alice Playten, whose career spanned nearly five decades in some of Broadway and television's most recognizable productions, passed away this morning from heart failure at Sloan Kettering Hospital. She was 63 years old.
Photo Coverage: A FREE MAN OF COLOR Opening Night!
The Lincoln Center Theater production of John Guare's new play, A FREE MAN OF COLOR, directed by George C. Wolfe, opened last night Thursday, November 18 at the Vivian Beaumont Theater. The cast features Yao Ababio, Peter Bartlett, Nicole Beharie, Arnie Burton, Rosal Colón,Veanne Cox, Paul Dano, Sara Gettelfinger, Derric Harris, Justina Machado, Joseph Marcell, John McMartin, Nick Mennell, Mos, Teyonnah Parris, Postell Pringle, Esau Pritchett, Brian Reddy, Reg Rogers, Triney Sandoval, Robert Stanton, Wendy Rich Stetson, Jerome Stigler, Senfaub Stoney,David Emerson Toney and Jeffrey Wright.
The Lincoln Center Theater production of John Guare's new play, A FREE MAN OF COLOR, directed by George C. Wolfe, opened last night Thursday, November 18 at the Vivian Beaumont Theater. The cast features Yao Ababio, Peter Bartlett, Nicole Beharie, Arnie Burton, Rosal Colón,Veanne Cox, Paul Dano, Sara Gettelfinger, Derric Harris, Justina Machado, Joseph Marcell, John McMartin, Nick Mennell, Mos, Teyonnah Parris, Postell Pringle, Esau Pritchett, Brian Reddy, Reg Rogers, Triney Sandoval, Robert Stanton, Wendy Rich Stetson, Jerome Stigler, Senfaub Stoney,David Emerson Toney and Jeffrey Wright.
Rattlestick Playwrights Theater Presents theaterjam
Rattlestick Playwrights Theater presents theaterjam, an all day festival of short pieces featuring many of Rattlestick's playwrights, actors and directors.
Rattlestick Playwrights Theater presents theaterjam, an all day festival of short pieces featuring many of Rattlestick's playwrights, actors and directors.
Rattlestick Playwrights Theater Presents theaterjam
Rattlestick Playwrights Theater presents theaterjam, an all day festival of short pieces featuring many of Rattlestick's playwrights, actors and directors.
Rattlestick Playwrights Theater presents theaterjam, an all day festival of short pieces featuring many of Rattlestick's playwrights, actors and directors.
Off-Bway Premiere of Solms' 'IT MUST BE HIM,' Ends 8/26
Producer Orin Wolf and Off the Aisle Productions have announced that It Must Be Him, a new comedy by Kenny Solms, co-creator and writer of the legendary, Emmy Award-winning 'Carol Burnett Show,' will premiere this summer at the Peter J. Sharp Theatre (416 West 42nd Street). Directed by Daniel Kutner, It Must Be Him began performances on Tuesday, August 24, and officially opened on Wednesday, September 1. The limited engagement ends Sunday, September 26.
Producer Orin Wolf and Off the Aisle Productions have announced that It Must Be Him, a new comedy by Kenny Solms, co-creator and writer of the legendary, Emmy Award-winning 'Carol Burnett Show,' will premiere this summer at the Peter J. Sharp Theatre (416 West 42nd Street). Directed by Daniel Kutner, It Must Be Him began performances on Tuesday, August 24, and officially opened on Wednesday, September 1. The limited engagement ends Sunday, September 26.
Review - It Must Be Him: Left Coast Story
It's not shaping up to be a very promising season for alumni of The Carol Burnett Show. Just like the recently closed Viagra Falls, Kenny Solms' It Must Be Him offers a terrific company of comical pros working hard to inject any mirth possible into ninety minutes of tepid material.
It's not shaping up to be a very promising season for alumni of The Carol Burnett Show. Just like the recently closed Viagra Falls, Kenny Solms' It Must Be Him offers a terrific company of comical pros working hard to inject any mirth possible into ninety minutes of tepid material.
Review - Wife To James Whelan: The Man That Got Away
Though Teresa Deevy was arguably the world's most famous female playwright in 1942, the year she completed her class-conscious romance Wife To James Whelan, the new management of Dublin's Abbey Theatre, which had already produced six of her plays, turned it down. The once-prolific career of the dramatist whose love for theatre began after being diagnosed at age 20 as incurably deaf due to Meniere's disease, skidded to a halt, making her name, at least on this shore, all but forgotten now.
Though Teresa Deevy was arguably the world's most famous female playwright in 1942, the year she completed her class-conscious romance Wife To James Whelan, the new management of Dublin's Abbey Theatre, which had already produced six of her plays, turned it down. The once-prolific career of the dramatist whose love for theatre began after being diagnosed at age 20 as incurably deaf due to Meniere's disease, skidded to a halt, making her name, at least on this shore, all but forgotten now.
Photo Coverage: IT MUST BE HIM Opens Off-Broadway
Celebrity guests, including Angelica Huston, Joan Rivers, Joel Grey, Phyllis Newman, Anthony Rapp, Gail Parent, and Sandy Gallin cheered on the opening night of It Must Be Him, written by Kenny Solms and directed by Daniel Kutner last night, September 1.
Celebrity guests, including Angelica Huston, Joan Rivers, Joel Grey, Phyllis Newman, Anthony Rapp, Gail Parent, and Sandy Gallin cheered on the opening night of It Must Be Him, written by Kenny Solms and directed by Daniel Kutner last night, September 1.
Scolari, D'Abruzzo, et al. Set for Off-Bway Premiere of Solms' 'IT MUST BE HIM,' 8/24
Producer Orin Wolf and Off the Aisle Productions have announced that It Must Be Him, a new comedy by Kenny Solms, co-creator and writer of the legendary, Emmy Award-winning 'Carol Burnett Show,' will premiere this summer at the Peter J. Sharp Theatre (416 West 42nd Street). Directed by Daniel Kutner, It Must Be Him will begin performances on Tuesday, August 24, and officially open on Wednesday, September 1. The limited engagement ends Sunday, September 26.
Producer Orin Wolf and Off the Aisle Productions have announced that It Must Be Him, a new comedy by Kenny Solms, co-creator and writer of the legendary, Emmy Award-winning 'Carol Burnett Show,' will premiere this summer at the Peter J. Sharp Theatre (416 West 42nd Street). Directed by Daniel Kutner, It Must Be Him will begin performances on Tuesday, August 24, and officially open on Wednesday, September 1. The limited engagement ends Sunday, September 26.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How many Broadway shows has Alice Playten been in?
Alice Playten has appeared on Broadway in 10 shows.
How many West End shows has Alice Playten been in?
Alice Playten has not appeared in the West End.
What awards has Alice Playten been nominated for?
Performance (Obie Awards) for First Lady Suite, Outstanding Featured Actress - Play (Drama Desk Awards) for Spoils of War, Distinguished Performances (Obie Awards) for Lemmings, Performance (Theatre World Awards) for Henry, Sweet Henry and Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Musical (Tony Awards) for Henry, Sweet Henry.
What awards has Alice Playten won?
Alice Playten has won an Obie Award for Performance for First Lady Suite. She also received an Obie Award for Distinguished Performances for Lemmings. Additionally, she won a Theatre World Award for Performance for Henry, Sweet Henry.
Videos