Angelina Jolie and Daughter Vivienne: A Bond Strengthened Through Theater

Angelina Jolie, the Oscar-winning actress and humanitarian, has always been known for her close relationship with her children. Recently, she has provided deeper insight into her bond with her 15-year-old daughter, Vivienne, through their shared love of theater. In an exclusive interview with Deadline, Jolie shared the story of how their involvement in the Broadway musical “The Outsiders” came to be and how this experience has enriched their mother-daughter relationship.

A Shared Passion for Theater

Vivienne Jolie-Pitt, one of Jolie’s six children with ex-husband Brad Pitt, has developed a profound appreciation for theater. This passion became a focal point for both mother and daughter when Vivienne expressed a strong connection to “The Outsiders,” a stage adaptation of the classic S.E. Hinton novel. Jolie recounted how Vivienne attended the show at La Jolla Playhouse multiple times, each viewing deepening her appreciation and understanding of the material.

“Viv loves theater,” Jolie explained. “She appreciates all theater but certainly knows what she feels close to and what she responds to. She went to see ‘The Outsiders’ at La Jolla about five times and was telling me about it. I had read the book and seen the film years ago, but it was a very different experience understanding how this is having a significant effect on her as a young person right now.”

The Power of the Material

Jolie emphasized the impact that “The Outsiders” had on Vivienne, noting how it communicated powerful themes relevant to her daughter’s experiences and emotions. This connection to the material spurred Jolie to become involved with the production, not just as a supportive mother but as a producer, providing her with the opportunity to see firsthand how the project developed.

“I had the privilege of watching everyone work over this last year to make it into what it is, and Vivienne has been there the whole way,” Jolie said. This immersive involvement allowed Vivienne to contribute significantly, taking on the role of producer’s assistant, a position that enabled her to learn and grow within the theatrical world.

A Learning Experience

Working on “The Outsiders” has been an educational journey for Vivienne. According to the musical’s director, Dan Tamore, Vivienne possesses an incredible eye for theater, a talent that has been nurtured through her hands-on experience with the production. This opportunity not only enhanced her understanding of theater but also provided a unique bonding experience with her mother.

“Watching her learn and grow through this experience has been wonderful,” Jolie remarked. “It’s given us the chance to understand each other better and share something truly special.”

Recognition and Red Carpet Moments

The stage adaptation of “The Outsiders” has garnered significant acclaim, receiving 12 Tony Award nominations. Although it remains uncertain whether Jolie and Vivienne will attend the award ceremony, their involvement in the production has already drawn attention. The mother-daughter duo recently made a rare red carpet appearance together at the opening of “Reefer Madness: The Musical” in Los Angeles on May 30th, alongside actress Kristen Bell.

This appearance coincided with reports indicating that Vivienne is listed in the playbill for the Broadway musical as Vivienne Jolie, seemingly dropping the Pitt from her name. This subtle change hints at Vivienne’s desire to carve out her own identity within the industry, separate from her famous parents.

Co-Parenting and Family Dynamics

Despite their high-profile divorce in 2016, Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt continue to share custody of their six children: Maddox, Pax, Zahara, Shiloh, and twins Vivienne and Knox. Jolie’s commitment to her children’s interests and passions remains a priority, as evidenced by her involvement in Vivienne’s theatrical pursuits.

Balancing her career and family life, Jolie has often spoken about the importance of supporting her children in their endeavors. Her engagement with “The Outsiders” is a testament to this dedication, showcasing her willingness to step into new roles and responsibilities to foster her daughter’s growth and creativity.

Conclusion

The collaboration between Angelina Jolie and her daughter Vivienne on “The Outsiders” has been a transformative experience for both. Through their shared love of theater, they have strengthened their bond and created lasting memories. Vivienne’s role in the production highlights her burgeoning talent and passion for the arts, while Jolie’s involvement underscores her unwavering support as a mother.

As they continue to navigate their respective paths, both individually and together, the story of Angelina Jolie and Vivienne Jolie-Pitt serves as an inspiring example of how shared interests and creative pursuits can bring family members closer. Their journey with “The Outsiders” is not just a professional achievement but a personal triumph that celebrates the power of art to connect and inspire