Page 74 - STARS.Book.09.27.21

Quotes from noted national theater critics of the 1950s upon the opening of the American Shakespeare Festival Theater in Stratford, CT in 1955
“Great promise for the future of the American Classic Theatre. . . Here indeed is the beginning and a plan for a truly permanent acting company devoted to Shakespeare.”
Brooks Atkinson, New York Times
“That our own Stratford (and it’s past time the wealthiest nation in the world had one) is giving excitement to the world’s greatest dramas is an enthralling achievement : color, excitement, magic, and glory suffuse these productions.”
richard Cox, Washington Post
“Are the American people today ready to accept Shakespeare? The American Shakespeare Theatre says yes and in this hope lies a future for the establishment of our national classic style.”
Elliot norton, Boston Herald
“Theatre magic of the highest kind . . . for these magicians are dedicated people not only to Shakespeare but to the immortal theatre.”
J. Dorsey Callaghan, Detroit Free Press
“A reason for singing and dancing in the streets.”
Arthur Spaeth, Cleveland news
“The presentations and the Festival spirit are of absorbing interest.”
Kansas City Star
“The most beautiful comfortable playhouse i have ever been in—the perfect theatre. i urge you to hurry up the Merritt Parkway to see it.”
John Chapman, new York Daily news
inside the theatre it offers good acting and excellent productions; outside it offers patrons a riverside promenade. . . The American Stratford is a perfect place to enjoy Shakespeare.”
life Magazine