Martha Knott

I wanted to include some information about Martha that was cut from the print edition.

Knott befriended numerous local actors during her long theatrical career in Oklahoma City, including Suzanne Charney, Clyde Martin, Charlotte Franklin, Jane Hall and Billie Thrash. Their paths crossed frequently due to their mutual love of theater.

“Martha was not only a treasured friend, but also a treasure trove of theatrical knowledge and taught us all about comic timing,” said Billie Thrash. “Those of us who had the pleasure of sharing the stage with her always expanded on the W.C. Fields line and altered it to ‘Never perform with dogs, children or Martha Knott.’

“She’d steal the scene right out from under you, but never on purpose; she was just that endearing. From the tent shows of the long past with her theatrical parents to the modern day stage, she was always an audience favorite as well as a favorite of all who worked with her. I miss her terribly.”

Knott often used her quick wit to inform the many comedic roles she played. Even when talking about herself, Knott’s self-deprecating sense of humor was disarmingly pointed. “You’ve got to be a little bit of a ham to do this kind of thing,” Knott once said. “I guess with me, the ham just cured a little better.”

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