From the Robert Prosky Papers
Born in Philadelphia, Robert Prosky spent much of his career as an actor in more than 200 plays at the Arena Stage in Washington, D.C., on Broadway in New York City, and in regional theatre. Prosky’s association with the Arena Stage included more than 130 productions over the course of 20 years. His Broadway appearances included “Glengarry Glenross,” “A Walk in the Woods,” and “A View from the Bridge.” Highlights from regional theater include “Death of a Salesman,” “Twelfth Night,” and “You Can’t Take It With You.” He also performed on stage in the Moscow Art Theatre in Russia, the Gate Theater in Dublin, Ireland, as well as in a Chinese theater in Hong Kong.
Beginning in the 1980s, he began regularly appearing in films and television shows. His films include “Mrs. Doubtfire,” “The Natural,” and “Dead Man Walking.” Television credits include three years on “Hill Street Blues,” many television films, and guest shots.
He was given or nominated for two Tony awards, two Helen Hayes awards, an Emmy, the Drama Desk award, and the American Express Tribute To An American Actor. In his later years he continued to perform on stage and gave lectures on his long career at universities, film festivals, for theater benefits, business groups and on cruises. Special Collections & Archives’ Oral History Program Coordinator, Leah Donnelly, interviewed Bob at his home in Washington, D.C. on November 8, 2007.
In 2007 & 2008. Prosky donated his personal papers to George Mason University Libraries, where they are currently available for research.
