Dorothy Sarnoff (1914–2008) was an American operatic soprano, Broadway actress, and speech consultant who influenced both performing arts and public speaking. After a successful opera and theater career, she transitioned to speech coaching, helping business leaders, politicians, and public figures refine their communication skills.
Born in Brooklyn, New York, Sarnoff studied English and public speaking at Cornell University, graduating in 1935. She trained in France and later worked with renowned instructors in New York City. She performed with the New York City Opera and starred in Les contes d’Hoffmann and La bohème. On Broadway, she originated Lady Thiang in The King and I (1951,) introducing Something Wonderful.
After retiring, Sarnoff founded Speech Dynamics Inc., a consultancy specializing in public speaking. She authored Speech Can Change Your Life (1970,) Make the Most of Your Best (1981,) and Never Be Nervous Again (1987.) Her expertise was sought by leaders including U.S. President Jimmy Carter and Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Dorothy Sarnoff
Make sure you have finished speaking before your audience has finished listening.
—Dorothy Sarnoff
Topics: Speech, Audiences, Speaking
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