Maude Adams: Idol of American Theater, 1872-1953
Ernie's Take:
Maude Adams, by Armond Fields, details the life and adventures of one of Stevens College’s most famous professors. Adams was a famous Broadway actress, specializing in ingénue roles. A protégé of theatrical producer Charles Fromann, she specialized in the works of James M. Barrie, including the title role of the debut of Peter Pan on the American stage. Amassing a large fortune, she retired in 1916, only to come out of seclusion in later years to become head of the drama department at Columbia’s own Stevens College. Fields’ book is an interesting look at a shy, reclusive star and her part in America’s golden age of theatrical history.
Summary:
Maude Adams (1872-1953) was a beloved and talented American Broadway actress who greatly influenced succeeding acting methods and production techniques. She first appeared on stage as an infant in her actress mother's arms, and then moved to a succession of children's parts. Her New York debut came in 1888, supported by E.H. Southern and then Charles Frohman, a demanding mentor. In 1905, she played her most famous role: the star of James M. Barrie's Peter Pan.
This biography of the beautiful, kind, and very private actress covers both her life experiences and her innovations on the stage
Armond Fields is a social historian specializing in American popular theater. His other works include biographies of Sophie Tucker, Fred Stone, James J. Corbett, Lillian Russell, and Eddie Foy. He lives in Culver City, California.