Thor Nielsen. Actor, Director, Choreographer, Producer. 1934-2000
Thor was born in Utah but his parents passed away early in his childhood. He and his sister Christine were adopted by a Mormon couple, Thor and Annie Nielsen. He graduated from the University of Utah with a degree in theater and went on to study at the prestigious American Academy of Dramatic Art. While in New York he was also mentored by Ed Wynn whose approach to acting with an emphasis on physicality had a strong influence on the young actor's later style. When he was drafted, Thor became a Director of Entertainment Services for the Army and was honorably discharged in 1959.
Perhaps his early Mormon upbringing -- migration to desolate places filled with the promise of flourishing growth -- led Thor to the culturally arid landscape of Orange County, California in the early 60s. MORE
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