What is a dramaturgy blog?

This blog will serve as a source of research and information for the cast and crew of GPAC's Ragtime. Each post will address specific topics or areas of interest presented in the show. Dramaturgy is meant to highlight the historical, social, political, and economical context of the play as well as answer any questions presented by the cast and crew. Instead of printing packets of information for the cast, this online blog will allow me to continuously share research, pictures, video, music, etc - without wasting any paper! The blog will constantly be updated and under construction so feel free to email me about specific topics: JoanMarieHurwit@gmail.com.

Friday, July 1, 2011

Reference: Mary Pickford

Tateh: Where is Mary Pickford when I need her?

(Act II, pg. 16)
Despite being Canadian-born, Mary Pickford was one of the greatest female stars of all time, named by the American Film Institute. She was one of the most integral figures in silent pictures, her demands shaped the Hollywood industry, and she was one of the original thirty-six founders of the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences.

Tateh asks where Mary Pickford is when he needs her... well! She would currently be rehearsing or performing on Broadway. In 1907, she finally landed a supporting role on the stage in William C. deMille's The Warrens of Virginia. 

*Fun fact: She adopted the stage name Mary Pickford when producer of The Warrens of Virginia insisted she change it, however she was born and until 1907 was known as Gladys Smith.*

(So... Terrence McNally didn't quite do his homework considering Warrens would have had to have premiered early in 1907 since this scene in the play is set during the spring or summer season. Also, she wasn't popular in films until about 1909, so unless Tateh fiercely followed the theatre scene in New York, he wouldn't have known who she was. Sorry McNally, you're caught!)
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