Jean Adair papers, 1914-1936 bulk (1914-1929).

Links

• View catalog record
• View PDF finding aid (38.4 KB)

Creator

Adair, Jean, 1873-1953.

Location

Billy Rose Theatre Division

Extent

• 1 lin. ft. (1 box)

Access Restrictions

Collection is open to the public. Library policy on photography and photocopying will apply. Advance notice may be required.

Scope/Contents Note

The Jean Adair papers document the early part of Ms. Adair's career through clippings, correspondence, photographs and ephemera. The materials span the years 1914-1936, though most of the collection documents the years 1914-1928.

Biographical/Historical Note

Jean Adair, character actress, was born Violet McNaughton,in Hamilton, Ontario Canada, ca. 1872-1873. She trained for the theater in Chicago and developed her craft in stock companies. Her first important role was the lead inthe William A. Brady tour of MOTHER. She spent several seasons on the vaudeville circuit doing playlets includingTHE OLD ARISTOCRAT, BEAUTY IS ONLY SKIN DEEP and MAGGIE TAYLOR, WAITRESS. Her Broadway career began in 1922 with IT'S A BOY and ended with THE CRUCIBLE in 1953. er best known role was Aunt Martha in ARSENIC AND OLD LACE. She died in New York City on May 11, 1953 at the age of 80.

Controlled Access Terms

• Adair, Jean, 1873-1953.
• Theater -- United States.
• Vaudeville.
• Actors.
• Clippings.