Collection number: UA 9/4/3
Size: 2 boxes
(0.66 cu.ft.)
About William G. Hennessy
Professor William G. Hennessy joined the UNH English department in 1923 after a brief career as a professional actor. He was given three titles -- English instructor, debating coach and director of dramatics. The previous year, interested students had formed an honorary dramatic society called the Mask and Dagger. Hennessy is given credit for much of the success of the Mask and Dagger and for the establishment of the theater program on campus. After 25 years he retired from directing. In 1963, the new arena theater in the Paul Creative Arts Center was named in his honor.
About the Hennessy Theater Files
This collection primarily contains the programs and photographs of the plays directed by Hennessy. There is also a folder of letters from President Edward M. Lewis who attended almost every play and then sent a brief letter of critique to Hennessy.
Administrative Information
Access Restrictions
This collection is open.
Copyright Notice
Copyright is retained by the University of New Hampshire.
Preferred Citation
[Identification of item], William G. Hennessy Theater Files, 1923-1941, UA 9/4/3, Milne Special Collections and Archives, University of New Hampshire Library, Durham, NH, USA.
Acquisitions Information
These records were transfered to the University Library for storage prior to the establishment of the University Archives in 1992.
Collection Contents
| Box 1 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Box 1, Folder 1 | 1923-1930 | Mask and Dagger programs |
| Box 1, Folder 2 | 1930-1941 | Mask and Dagger programs |
| Box 1, Folder 3 | Improvisational cards | |
| Box 1, Folder 4 | 1937 | "Spring Dance" newspaper clippings |
| Box 1, Folder 5 | 1937 | "Stage Door" newspaper clippings |
| Box 1, Folder 6 | 1939 | "Our Town" newspaper clippings |
| Box 1, Folder 7 | 1927-1935 | Correspondence from President Edward M. Lewis |
| Box 2 | ||
| 1923-1930 | Mask and Dagger Scrapbook This scrapbook contains the programs and photographs of the first seven years of Mask and Dagger. It was given to the library by Hennessy who wished it "to serve as a permanent record." | |
