LUCILLE LORTEL - AUTOGRAPH - HFSID 347692

LUCILLE LORTEL
The Tony-nominated stage performer whose influence on Broadway and Off-Broadway Theater resounds today signed this index card
Signature: "Lucille Lortel". 5x3 index card. Lucille Lortel (1900-1999) was more than a theatrical performer: her work as a producer and theatre owner significantly expanded the growth and nature of the American stage. Lortel made her Broadway debut in 1925 after training in theatre, maintaining a consistent performing career on the biggest stages of New York City until 1932. Marrying Louis Schweitzer in 1931, she retired from acting eight years later at the request of her husband. In a return to the theatre business, she began the White Barn Theatre in 1947. Located in Westport, Connecticut, the Theatre gave writers space to produce experimental works without the pressure of making a profit. Many productions that began at the White Barn went on to appear on Off-Broadway and Broadway stages. Lortel opened a second theatre in 1955, this one named the Theatre De Lys. It has since been renamed the Lucille Lortel Theatre. Located in Greenwich Village, this stage is home to the only Off-Broadway production that won a Tony Award: The Threepenny Opera (1955-1962). It won a special award as well as Best Featured Actress. This production raised the prominence of Off-Broadway significantly. Lortel continued to produce works on Broadway and Off-Broadway stages until her death in 1999. Her contribution to the industry, predominantly as a producer and theatre owner, led to the growth of Off-Broadway entertainment. Today, the Lucille Lortel Foundation offers annual awards to celebrate Off-Broadway achievement, provides grants to theatres, and operates an online Off-Broadway database. Lightly toned. Note on verso in unknown hand. Otherwise, fine condition.