{"value"=>"<p>Golden's correspondents represent many of the most important theatrical figures of the day. His letters with literary agents such as Hans Bartsch illuminate the trends of American popular theatre, and he corresponded extensively with playwrights, particularly those with whom he frequently worked. Prominent actors are also present. Researchers pursuing information on a specific playwright, actor, or production should also consult Series II: Show Files for additional material. Golden's company manager, John Pollock (\"Dixie\"), and his general manager, Richard French (\"Frenchie\"), were critical figures in many of Golden's productions, particularly in the 1930s and 1940s. Their communications chronicle the process of putting up a John Golden production from the selection of the play to the final curtain. Similarly, letters from Buford Armitage, a regular stage manager for Golden, detail the day-to-day issues arising in both Broadway and touring companies. Additional correspondence with Pollock, French, and Armitage can be found throughout Series II. Show Files.</p> <p>At the height of his career, Golden wielded considerable influence not only in the New York theatrical community, but in the city at large. Golden, with his emphasis on \"clean\" plays, shared a common goal with Production Code implementer Will H. Hayes, and wrote to him regularly. He was in regular contact with New York City Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia on subjects ranging from the creation of a performing arts high school, to the issue of rampant ticket scalping, to the development of a booth in Times Square for the distribution of free tickets to servicemen on leave. He communicated regularly with LaGuardia appointees, including William F. Carey, the Commissioner of Sanitation for the City of New York, and Grover Whalen, who appointed Golden as chairman of the Entertainment Committee for the 1939 New York World's Fair. Letters with Franklin D. Roosevelt show Golden's participation in FDR's gubernatorial and presidential campaigns. Correspondence with Eleanor Roosevelt begins during their mutual work together with war relief programs, and continues until Golden's death. In some instances, particularly with Mayor LaGuardia, and Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt, there is overlap in content with Series III. War Work.</p> <p>Golden's personal and professional philanthropy is apparent throughout: the collection contains many letters from friends, colleagues, actors, and even total strangers, soliciting financial or vocational help. More often than not, Golden extended assistance. Likewise, Golden's encouragement of emerging acting and writing talents--including Zora Neale Hurston-- is also evident.</p>"}