Tom Hanks is a name that needs no introduction. He is one of Hollywood’s most beloved actors and has appeared in numerous films that have become instant classics. However, not many people know that Hanks has also had a successful career in theatre. In this article, we take a closer look at his theatre credits.
Hanks’ Early Theatre Career
Tom Hanks made his professional stage debut in 1977, portraying Grumio in The Taming of the Shrew at the Great Lakes Shakespeare Festival in Cleveland, OH. He then performed with the company for three seasons. In 1978, Hanks moved to New York City and performed with the Riverside Shakespeare Company.
Lucky Guy
Hanks’ most significant stage role came in 2013, when he starred in the Broadway play, Lucky Guy. The play was written by the late Nora Ephron and was based on the life of New York Daily News journalist, Mike McAlary. Hanks portrayed McAlary, and the play was a critical and commercial success.
Awards and Nominations
Hanks’ performance in Lucky Guy earned him several nominations and awards, including:
- Drama Desk Awards – 2013 – Outstanding Actor in a Play
- Drama League Awards – 2013 – Distinguished Performance Award
- Outer Critics Circle Awards – 2013 – Outstanding Actor in a Play
- Theatre World Awards – 2013 – Theatre World Award Gold Star
- Tony Awards – 2013 – Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play
Other Theatre Credits
Apart from Lucky Guy, Hanks has also appeared in other plays, including:
- The Mandrake (1979) – Hanks played the role of Callimaco in this production by the Riverside Shakespeare Company.
- Henry IV (2018) – Hanks played the role of Sir John Falstaff in this production by the Shakespeare Center of LA.
- Twelfth Night (1977) – Hanks performed at Lakewood Civic Auditorium in the role of Fabian.
Conclusion
Tom Hanks’ theatre career may not be as extensive as his film career, but it is nonetheless impressive. Hanks’ performances on stage have been praised by critics and audiences alike, and Lucky Guy stands out as a highlight in his theatrical repertoire. It is evident that Hanks is not just a talented film actor but a versatile performer who can hold his own on stage. We can only hope to see him in more theatre productions in the future.
