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Creator
Riemer, Walter
Call number
Sc MG 454
Physical description
.17 linear feet (1/2 archival box)
Language
English
Preferred Citation
[Item], Porgy and Bess collection, Sc MG 454, Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, Manuscripts, Archives and Rare Books Division, The New York Public Library
Repository
Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, Manuscripts, Archives and Rare Books Division
Access to materials
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The Porgy and Bess collection documents the 1954-1956 touring company of the opera Porgy and Bess by George Gershwin, produced by Robert Breen and Blevins Davis, and directed by Breen.

Biographical/historical information

The Porgy and Bess collection documents the 1954-1956 touring company of the opera Porgy and Bess by George Gershwin, produced by Robert Breen and Blevins Davis, and directed by Breen. The stage manager was Walter Riemer. Cast members included Joseph Attles, Catherine Ayers, Georgia Burke, George A. Hill, Helen Thigpen, and Catherine Van Buren.

Scope and arrangement

This collection consists of several letters (1953-1955) between one of the producers and the musical director relating to production problems and issues affecting the show; a company roster providing vital statistics for cast, crew, and musicians, 1954; and the itinerary for the international tour, 1952-1956. Additionally, there are US programs (including for a 1964 production in which Riemer played a role) and European productions, reviews, and other articles.

Of particular interest are photocopies of letters (1932-1935) between composer George Gershwin and DuBose Heyward, author of the original book on which the musical was based, regarding the development and production of the original production of Porgy and Bess and casting. There is also one letter from Ira Gershwin to Heyward after the death of his brother George in 1937.

Administrative information

Source of acquisition

Gift, Lynn Archer for Walter Riemer Estate, June 1996

Processing information

Accessioned by Diana Lachatanere on July 31, 1996.

Separated material

Two posters moved to the Broadsides collection. Transferred to the Photographs and Prints Division: 1 box and 1 oversize envelope of photographs of various US and European productions.

Related Material

Scrapbook in General Research and Reference Division.

Using the collection

Location

Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, Manuscripts, Archives and Rare Books Division
515 Malcolm X Boulevard, New York, NY 10037-1801
Second Floor