VAL DUFOUR
A letter to John Willis, Editor of Theatre World, offering a painting signed by the late Theatre World founder Daniel Blum as a gift
Autograph letter signed: "Val Dufour", in blue ink, 1 page, 6x4. New York City, New York. Dec 1984. In full: "Dear John - Thanks for the Christmas card. I have been wanting to talk to you - I have a painting (signed by Danny) of a snow scene. Would you like to have it? He gave it to me one Christmas. Call if you'd like it - my gift. Merry Christmas and a wonderful, healthy 1985 to you. Love". Val Dufour (1927-2000), born in New Orleans to Parisian French parents, made his Broadway debut in High Button Shoes (1947). He may be best remembered to a wider audience for his starring roles in daytime TV dramas: Walter Curtin in Another World (1967-1972) and John Wyatt on Search for Tomorrow (1972-1979). He was seen in many TV guest spots in the 1950s and 1960s, including 4 episodes of Gunsmoke and many other Western roles. 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. Corners lightly worn and creased. Slightly soiled. Fine condition.