5 Takeaways From Oscar Winner F Murray Abraham’s Visit To El Paso

We're sharing five interesting takeaways from actor F. Murray Abraham's recent visit to El Paso.

Former El Paso native and Oscar winner F. Murray Abraham was in town over the weekend as one of the invited special guests for the 15th Annual Plaza Classic Film Festival.

During his time in town, the actor made appearances before screening two of his movies, Amadeus (1984) and the Wes Anderson film Grand Budapest Hotel (2018).

On his second night, Abraham took the stage to reiterate what he had told the audience the night before, saying in part that he was "very excited to be in town." He also went on to say that he had the opportunity to drive around El Paso, recalling when real-life alligators were part of San Jacinto Plaza and the importance of his childhood friendships.

Abraham said, "for me, the privilege of growing up in a city of two cultures, I grew up speaking Spanish and English...(interjected in Spanish) but if you don't use it, the language you forget it."

He added that his accomplishments and the man he has become today are rooted in El Paso, and he is ever grateful.

Apart from his appreciation for El Paso, there were five takeaways from his visit to the Sun City.

Key To The City

F. Murray Abraham was presented with the key to the city during his recent visit to El Paso.

Star On The Mountain

Over the weekend, the Star on The Mountain was lighted in his honor during his stay in El Paso.

Gave Love To His Theatre Teacher

During his second night on stage, Abraham thanked his El Paso High School theater teacher, Lucia P. Hutchins, who he credits for saving his life and awakening his love for theatre.

Dedication To His Craft - Shakespeare

The actor shared that he has memorized 60 Shakespeare sonnets and counting, saying, "That's what I do," not just for the love of theatre but to keep his mind sharp.

Plaza Film Festival Award

After years of trying to get the oscar winner to be part of the Plaza Classic Film, Abraham's schedule finally aligned with the annual event where he received the Plaza Classic Achievement Award.

Working In El Paso

The actor talked about pumping gas at his father's garage and also working making pizzas at Como's when it first opened in downtown El Paso before moving to N. Mesa St.