Yiddish Actor's Union. Protocols and Minutes of the meetings of the Executive Board

An indispensable source for the history of Yiddish theatre in the United States over fifty years. Contains information regarding the various troupes, theatres and management in Brooklyn, East New York, Brighton and Second Avenue in Manhattan. Notions to expand to other cities (Philadelphia, Boston, Chicago); prospect of opening a theatre in Los Angeles. Problems concerning casting, stagehands and playwrights; interaction with the Jewish Labor Committee and the Workman's Circle; lists applicants to join the Union, candidates for election. Ephemera includes official ballot for election of officers etc. Inter-union disputes and litigation between actors and actresses. Interaction with various Yiddish newspapers. Theater crisis during the Depression and war years; details concerning Yiddish actors killed during the Holocaust. The Union's charitable work: support for publishing Yiddish books and humanitarian activities. Many items concerning Maurice Schwarz, especially his decision to play Sholom Aleichem in English (- scandalous, according to the Union). Among many notables mentioned are: Ben Bonus, Jack and Seymor Rechzeit, David Opatashu, Fyvush Finkel, etc.