Schaefer, George, 1920-1997

George Schaefer (1920-1997) earned his B.A. from Lafayette College before attending Yale Drama School for one year. He enlisted in the army during World War II, where he directed over fifty plays for the Central Pacific Base Command. Following the war, he headed to New York to continue his work in the theatre. In 1953 he began his collaboration with Hallmark Hall of Fame television productions, directing a live televised stage performance of Hamlet. Schaefer eventually produced and/or directed 57 Hallmark productions, while he continued his work in theatre, feature films, and other television movies. His career spanned over 60 years, during which time he received many accolades. In 1985, he became the chair of the UCLA School of Theatre, Film, and Television. Two years later, he became Associate Dean. Schaefer died following a long illness in 1991.

Biography/History

George Schaefer (1920-1997) earned his B.A. from Lafayette College before attending Yale Drama School for one year. He enlisted in the army during World War II, where he directed over fifty plays for the Central Pacific Base Command. Following the war, he headed to New York to continue his work in the theatre. In 1953 he began his collaboration with Hallmark Hall of Fame television productions, directing a live televised stage performance of Hamlet. Schaefer eventually produced and/or directed 57 Hallmark productions, while he continued his work in theatre, feature films, and other television movies. His career spanned over 60 years, during which time he received many accolades. In 1985, he became the chair of the UCLA School of Theatre, Film, and Television. Two years later, he became Associate Dean. Schaefer died following a long illness in 1991.