Harpo speaks! New recordings reveal mute Marx brother chatting with audience
New recordings have revealed Harpo Marx, known for his silent persona, speaking to an audience during a charity performance in 1964. This performance included a narration of Prokofiev's 'Peter and the Wolf' and a monologue known as 'Red's Speech.' The recordings provide a rare glimpse into the voice of the comedy legend, who passed away six months later.
- ▪Harpo Marx was born Adolph Marx in 1888 and became famous for his silent comedy act.
- ▪In 1964, he performed at a charity event where he narrated 'Peter and the Wolf' and delivered a speech.
- ▪This performance was recorded, making it the only known recording of Harpo speaking publicly.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Snout to say for himself … Harpo Marx in 1930. Photograph: Cine Text/Sportsphoto/AllstarView image in fullscreenSnout to say for himself … Harpo Marx in 1930. Photograph: Cine Text/Sportsphoto/AllstarMoviesHarpo speaks! New recordings reveal mute Marx brother chatting with audienceThe comedy legend, who adopted his silent persona because of stage nerves, did occasionally address his audience, as revealed by a new archive releasePamela HutchinsonFri 29 May 2026 03.00 EDTLast modified on Fri 29 May 2026 03.06 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleGroucho was the cigar-chomping wit with the improbable moustache, Chico was the piano-playing rustic grifter and Zeppo played the straight man and the lover.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Guardian — Film.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from The Guardian — Film
