ROBERT "BOB" DOWNING - TYPED LETTER SIGNED 12/27/1970 - HFSID 314829

ROBERT "BOB" DOWNING
The actor writes a letter to John Willis, chief editor of Theatre World
Typed Letter Signed: "Bob", 1 page, 8½x7½. Denver, Colorado, December 27, 1970. Typed on official letterhead of The Denver Post. To John Willis, chief editor of Theatre World, New York City. In full: "Thanks so much for the Christmas goody! Also, the new THEATRE WORLD was delivered for me at the Bonfils Theatre. If you can, get Crown to send things to me at THE POST! I'm enclosing my Christmas column from the post, also a film review, and a souvenir of my 'farewell' appearance on the American stage! May be in NY late in January, and if so, let's have that drink. Happy '71." News column (4x24) and film review (5x7½) included. 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. Normal mailing folds. Lightly creased at top edge. Otherwise, fine condition.