The New York Enthusiasts was an organization active during the Post-World War Two period, made up of persons who, in the words of the club's newsletter, "like New York, want to learn more about New York, and want to do this in the company of...
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The New York Enthusiasts was an organization active during the Post-World War Two period, made up of persons who, in the words of the club's newsletter, "like New York, want to learn more about New York, and want to do this in the company of people with similar desires and interests." At its peak the club had several hundred members, and its newsletter ZIG ZAG was mailed out to some 2,000 subscribers. ZIG ZAG was published from July 1946 until May 1963. During that time, the Enthusiasts attended many stage productions in the city and the greater New York area, especially smaller-scale Off-Broadway plays. The New York Enthusiasts papers consist mostly of correspondence addressed to Hans Hacker, editor of the club's newsletter, ZIG ZAG, in which representatives of New York's smaller theater companies attempt to arouse interest in their productions. Several of the notes are concerned with the logistics of handling large theater parties of Enthusiasts, while others are focused on extolling the virtues of an upcoming show or season. Correspondence from the New Dramatists Committee gives a detailed description of their workshop process, and invites club members to attend readings. A 1952 note from the Oval Players announces that its next production will be directed by Joseph Papirofsky (i.e Joseph Papp). A 1949 note from a New Jersey Burlesque club invites Enthusiasts to enjoy material no longer legal in New York. Also included in the collection is the September/October 1952 issue of ZIG ZAG.
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