PERRY, ANTOINETTE

Perry, Antoinette: translation

(1888-1946)

Born in Denver, Colorado, Antoinette Perry made her acting debut at age 17 in 1905, appearing inLady Jim(1906) andA Grand Army Man(1907) before marrying wealthy businessman Frank Freauff in 1909. She retired until his death in 1924, after which she returned to the stage under producer Brock Pemberton's guidance, acting inMr. Pitt(1924),Minick(1924),The Ladder(1926), andElectra(1927). She became Pemberton's assistant and directed plays under his aegis, includingStrictly Dishonorable(1929),Personal Appearance* (1934), and the Pulitzer PRiZE-winningHarvey* in 1944. Beginning in the 1930s, Perry actively involved herself in several theatrical service organizations. In collaboration with Jane Cowl and Rachel Crothers, Perry established the American Theatre Wing* and the Stage Door Canteen* during World War II. Her service work led to the annual Antoinette Perry Awards,* nicknamed the "Tony Awards,*" being named for her in 1947, the year after her death.