Little Players (Theatrical troupe)

Under the guidance of Frank Peschka, Bill Murdock, and Isabelle Standwell, The Little Players produced puppet plays first in New York, later in Ohio, and received enthusiastic support from a number of prominent figures in the theatrical world. Beginning in New York City in 1959, the Little Players' puppet productions, which delved into classical material and were aimed at adults rather than children, soon established a following among actors and other entertainment professionals. Fans of the troupe included Sir John Gielgud, Ralph Richardson, Emlyn Williams, Stella Adler, Ethel Merman, Libby Holman, Geraldine Fitzgerald, Aline MacMahon, and Cyril Ritchard, among others. Several of these celebrities acquired season tickets to the Little Players' shows, and corresponded with the producers. Some maintained contact even after the Little Players troupe relocated to Huron, Ohio.

From the guide to the Little Players correspondence, 1961-1999, (The New York Public Library. Billy Rose Theatre Division.)

Under the guidance of Francis J. Peschka and W. Gordon Murdock, The Little Players began producing puppet plays in New York in the early 1950s, and continued to do so after Peschka and Murdock took up residence in Huron, Ohio.

Beginning in New York City in 1952, the Little Players' puppet productions, which delved into classical material and were aimed at adults rather than children, soon established a following among prominent actors and other entertainment professionals. Shows took place in a small apartment on Central Park West. Fans of the troupe included Sir John Gielgud, Ralph Richardson, Emlyn Williams, Stella Adler, Ethel Merman, Libby Holman, Geraldine Fitzgerald, Aline MacMahon, and Cyril Ritchard, among others. Several of these celebrities acquired season tickets to the Little Players' shows, and corresponded with the producers after they relocated.

From the description of Little Players correspondence, 1961-1999. (New York Public Library). WorldCat record id: 122626187