ROBERT "BOB" DOWNING - TYPED LETTER SIGNED 02/28/1974 - HFSID 316589

ROBERT "BOB" DOWNING
The actor and critic writes to John Willis, Editor of Theatre World, noting on a local theatre that had recently closed
Typed letter signed: "Bob", in blue ink, 8½x7½. February 28. 1974. Denver, Colorado. In full: "Dear John, Congratulations on the new volume. Excellent job, as always. Interested to see local Third Eye Theatre in the book. Alas, they folded, despite their very good offerings during their final season. They also got ousted from their theatre, and have been looking for new quarters ever since. Best to you". Robert "Bob" Downing (1914-1975) was an American actor and critic. In the 1930s, Downing began his career in show-business as a stage actor, appearing in productions of The Seagull and Amphitryon 38. Eventually, Downing became a stage manager for Broadway productions, specifically There Shall Be No Night. Within five years, he was promoted to production manager and worked on titles such as Hamlet and A Streetcar Named Desire. After his extensive stage experience, it was natural for Downing to pursue a critic position at the Denver Post, which he obtained. After a few years at the post of Drama Critic, Robert Downing passed away at the age of sixty-one. John A. Willis (1916-2010), active in Theatre World from the beginning, became its chief editor in 1965, holding that position until 2008. Willis is regarded as one of the foremost theatre and film historians of the 20th century. While producing (and presenting) the annual Theatre World Awards, Willis also served on the nominating committee for the Tony Awards. Theatre World, which received its own Tony for Excellence in Theatre in 2001, continues under chief editor Ben Hodges. Multiple folds. Corners slightly worn. Light surface creases. Otherwise, fine condition.