Sharon Barr

Sharon Barr is an American actress who rose to prominence in the 1970s, becoming a notable figure within the neo-expressionist off-off Broadway scene. She is best remembered for her impactful performances in productions such as *Women Behind Bars* and *The Dirtiest Show in Town*.

Originally from Lake Forest, Illinois, Barr honed her craft at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. She launched her career in 1971 with a role in the Los Angeles staging of Tom Eyen's *The Dirtiest Show in Town*. Her talent quickly shone through as she starred in Eyen’s *Women Behind Bars* and portrayed Anita Bryant in Ronald Tavel’s *The Ovens of Anita Orange Juice* at the Williamstown Theater Festival, later reprising the role in New York. Barr’s extensive stage work included appearances in Eyen’s *White Whore and the Bit Player*, *Ms. Neffertiti Regrets*, and *Give My Regards to Off-Off Broadway* at Ellen Stewart's La MaMa ETC, as well as performances at Theater Genesis in St. Mark's Church and the Manhattan Theater Club.

In the early 1990s, Barr created and showcased a solo performance piece titled "Protect Me From What I Want" in comedy clubs throughout Los Angeles. Her television career features guest roles in popular series like *Hill Street Blues*, *Night Court*, *Seinfeld*, and *Cheers*, where she uniquely portrayed two different characters in separate episodes. Additionally, she was a regular on ABC's *Max Headroom* and appeared in films such as Martin Ritt's *Nuts* and Dario Argento's *Trauma*.