I worked at The Old Globe Theater under the great baton of Craig Noel. One of the great theater heroes that we have. He was so great and so inspirational. I think I did 'Antony and Cleopatra' and 'The Taming of the Shrew'. I lived in Ocean Beach, and my rent was $140 a month.

The quote by Jeffrey Tambor, "I worked at The Old Globe Theater under the great baton of Craig Noel. One of the great theater heroes that we have. He was so great and so inspirational. I think I did 'Antony and Cleopatra' and 'The Taming of the Shrew'. I lived in Ocean Beach, and my rent was $140 a month," reflects Tambor's deep respect and admiration for Craig Noel, a legendary figure in American theater. Tambor credits Noel, the long-time artistic director of The Old Globe Theater, with being a significant influence on his career and artistry. He emphasizes how Noel's leadership was both inspirational and instrumental in shaping his development as an actor.

The origin of this quote likely comes from Tambor reflecting on his early years in theater, particularly his time at The Old Globe Theater in San Diego. Under Craig Noel’s guidance, Tambor had the opportunity to perform in significant Shakespearean plays like "Antony and Cleopatra" and "The Taming of the Shrew." Noel’s influence extended beyond just teaching acting; his mentorship and vision for the theater served as a creative and professional foundation for many actors, including Tambor. Tambor's reference to living in Ocean Beach at the time underscores the humble beginnings of his career before he rose to greater fame in television and film.

By describing Craig Noel as one of the great theater heroes, Tambor highlights the lasting impact Noel had on the arts and the theater community. Noel was known for his dedication to nurturing talent and creating an environment where artists could grow and experiment. Tambor’s words convey deep gratitude for the lessons and mentorship he received, which helped shape his own approach to acting.

Ultimately, this quote showcases the profound influence of Craig Noel on Jeffrey Tambor’s early career. Tambor’s reflection on his time at The Old Globe Theater reveals the significance of both the mentorship he received and the formative role that theater institutions play in shaping an actor's craft. His mention of living in Ocean Beach at the time provides a personal and grounded context, illustrating the contrast between his early struggles and the inspirational impact of Noel's leadership on his path to success.