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
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.
