Hennessy Theater Files

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 11923-1930Mask and Dagger programs
Box 1, Folder 21930-1941Mask and Dagger programs
Box 1, Folder 3Improvisational cards
Box 1, Folder 41937"Spring Dance" newspaper clippings
Box 1, Folder 51937"Stage Door" newspaper clippings
Box 1, Folder 61939"Our Town" newspaper clippings
Box 1, Folder 71927-1935Correspondence from President Edward M. Lewis
Box 2
1923-1930Mask 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."

Collection

Formats

Letters & Postcards
Minutes & Reports
Newspapers & Publications
Photographs, Slides & Negatives
Scrapbooks