Louise Evans Briggs-Hall (1921-1992) was the first African-American woman to become a member of the United Scenic Artists, Local USA 829, in the early 1950s. She began her career directing children's theatre. She later added stage scenic production and costume and lighting design to her list of accomplishments. Considered an African-American pioneer in the field of costume and set design, Briggs-Hall also directed theatrical productions. The Louise Evans Briggs-Hall Theatre Collection consists of funeral programs, playbills, flyers, and reviews for productions directed and designed by Briggs-Hall.
Louise Evans Briggs-Hall (1921-1992), born in St. Louis, Missouri was the first African-American woman to become a member of the United Scenic Artists, Local USA 829, in the early 1950s. She began her career directing children's theatre with the Children's Theatre of Evanston, the Thalian Society, and the Chicago Park District. She later added stage scenic production and costume and lighting design to her list of accomplishments. Considered an African-American pioneer in the field of costume and set design, Briggs-Hall also directed theatrical productions such as The Life We Live and was designer and technical director for productions such as As You Like It and George Washington Slept Here.
The Louise Evans Briggs-Hall Theatre Collection consists of funeral programs (1992), playbills, flyers, and reviews for productions directed and designed by Briggs-Hall. Additionally, there are materials that relate to the United Scenic Artists' Costume Designer's exam (1952-1954), and various identification cards, some relating to her professional memberships. Some items are photocopies.
Gift of Kathy A. Perkins, July 2008.
Accessioned by Miranda Mims, October 2011.
Transferred to the Art and Artifacts Division: set and costume designs.