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David Hyde Pierce: The Joy of Less in Theater

David Hyde Pierce captivates audiences from the moment he steps onto the stage, even before delivering the whimsical tongue-twister from “The Pirates of Penzance”:

I am the very model of a modern Major-General,
I’ve information vegetable, animal, and mineral,
I know the kings of England, and I quote the fights historical
From Marathon to Waterloo, in order categorical

His understated delivery, combined with a lively backdrop, creates a unique brand of humor that is quintessentially his own.

When asked about the idea that “less is more” in performance, Pierce offered his insights. “A lot of theater works are indeed built on the principle of MORE,” he noted. “Yet, sometimes what’s truly surprising is when an actor chooses a more restrained approach.”

This restraint serves as a reminder of the allure of subtlety in performance. Pierce reflected on the tendency many actors have to overact. “That temptation is always present,” he remarked, alluding to a memorable line from his iconic show “Frasier,” humorously stating, “If less is more, imagine how much more MORE can be!”

Best known for his 11-year portrayal of Dr. Niles Crane on the beloved sitcom “Frasier,” Pierce now embraces the role of Major-General in “Pirates! The Penzance Musical,” a modern adaptation that reimagines the classic Gilbert & Sullivan work, setting it against the vibrant backdrop of New Orleans.

Pierce shared a cherished artifact from his past: a Gilbert & Sullivan score from his 1970s summer camp days, tied to a memorable “Frasier” episode where he, Kelsey Grammer, and David Ogden Stiers performed numbers from “Penzance.” “It’s almost as old as I am,” he said with nostalgia.

When asked what Gilbert & Sullivan represents to him, Pierce became reflective. “It clearly holds a significant place in my life,” he replied, grappling with emotions stirred by the question. “It feels woven into the very fabric of my experiences.”

Inside his dressing room at the Roundabout Theatre, the walls bear witness to the legacy of his predecessors, adorned with photographs of both famous friends and mentors. “Tradition plays a pivotal role in our craft,” he noted, emphasizing the feeling of being part of a larger artistic community.

Pierce’s dressing space serves as a shrine of personal significance, featuring a poignant photograph of himself conversing with his father about a show he was involved in long before he fully grasped his future in performance. “Amateur performance runs in my family,” Pierce mused, highlighting a familial legacy that he embraced in his own artistic journey.

Initially aspiring to be a concert pianist, Pierce discovered his calling as an actor during his time at Yale. His path toward comedy was influenced by classic television shows like “The Dick Van Dyke Show,” “Mary Tyler Moore,” and “All in the Family.” The arrival of “Monty Python’s Flying Circus” on American television left a profound impact on him, further shaping his comedic sensibilities.

There is an undeniable connection between Pierce’s current work and historical figures such as Buster Keaton, particularly evident in his famous ironing board scene from “Frasier.” The cleverness of physical comedy resonates through his performances.

Expressing his desire to elicit laughter, Pierce explained, “I believe laughter represents a sense of connection.” He prefers live theater for its unique ability to communicate with the audience. “That connection is paramount; it’s what fuels my passion for performance,” he said, recalling his early experiences as an actor.

Throughout his career, Pierce has shared this journey with his partner, actor-writer Brian Hargrove, whom he married in 2008. Their relationship began under the unassuming circumstances of a tax preparation session, leading to a deeper connection that has endured since 1983. Hargrove’s encouragement to relocate to California ultimately led Pierce to his illustrious role on “Frasier.” Reflecting on his career choices, Pierce expressed satisfaction with the paths he has pursued, emphasizing the importance of creativity through change and diversity.

Now returning to the stage with “Pirates,” Pierce embraces the opportunity to share laughter through one of his longtime favorites, proving that the essence of theater remains ever vibrant.

For my military knowledge, though I’m plucky and adventury,
Has only been brought down to the beginning of the century;
But still, in matters vegetable, animal, and mineral,
I am the very model of a modern Major-General!

WEB EXCLUSIVE: Watch an extended interview with David Hyde Pierce

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Story produced by Robert Marston. Editor: Ed Givnish.

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