Title: Ben Kingsley: A Thespian's Quest for Transcendence Ben Kingsley is a household name when it comes to acting. With a plethora of critically acclaimed performances under his belt, the Oscar-winning actor has left an indelible mark in the entertainment industry. In a recent interview with the New York Times, Kingsley spoke candidly about his latest role as Salvador Dalí in "Dalíland," his love for Samuel Beckett's "Waiting for Godot," and the power of music in understanding history. To Kingsley, acting is an art that transcends beyond the surface level of storytelling. He sees it as an opportunity to embody characters and, in turn, learn about oneself and the world around them. In his portrayal of Dalí, Kingsley believes that he has actively challenged himself to bring the surrealistic artist to life, all whilst staying true to his essence. Kingsley is no stranger to challenging roles, even if it means delving into the minds of controversial figures such as Mahatma Gandhi in "Gandhi" or Simon Wiesenthal in "Murderers Among Us." For him, these roles provide an opportunity to showcase the human condition and the complexities that come with it. Beyond the stage, Kingsley has a deep appreciation for literature and music. He describes Samuel Beckett's "Waiting for Godot" as a play that has stayed with him since he first read it over forty years ago. The play's existential themes continue to resonate with him, and he sees the play as a reminder of the importance of being present in the moment. In addition to literature, Kingsley finds solace in music. He speaks fondly of Benjamin Britten's "War Requiem," describing how the composer's use of Latin and English shows the futility of war and the universal tragedy it engenders. For Kingsley, music has the power to capture the zeitgeist of an era in the same way that acting can bring a character to life. In conclusion, Ben Kingsley's passion for acting, literature, and music is apparent in his quest to transcend beyond the roles he portrays. His latest role as Salvador Dalí is a testament to his ability to challenge himself as an actor, whilst his love for literature and music is a testament to his appreciation for the art of storytelling. Kingsley is undoubtedly a thespian at heart, continually seeking out the performances that allow him to transcend beyond the confines of conventional acting. Ben Kingsley discusses his current role as Salvador Dalí in "Dalíland," as well as his appreciation for performances that go beyond the norm, citing "Waiting for Godot," D.H. Lawrence and Britten's "War Requiem" as examples.
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