Intimate memories of the grassroots days of American theater. Every small
town in America had a theater
like the Concert Hall in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, owned by Harlowe Hoyt's grandfather.
Across its stage paraded every type of entertainer from tight rope walkers
to medicine men.
Into its seats crowded a jubilant audience that hissed the villain, assisted
the magician,
and joined in singing "Angels Meet Me at the Crossroads." Town Hall
was all things
on all occasions--the scene of masquerades and impromptu dances; the local
home for
strolling sword swallowers acrobats, clowns, and banjoists; and even a roller
skating rink
for the young people. But, most important of all, for the townspeople it was
a wonderful,
magic world where they could always find romance, adventure and excitement.
This is a refreshing history of American entertainment in another generation,
vividly recapturing the buoyant spirit of a vanished era in American life.
(1955, 8.25x11, hardcover) $45.00
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last updated on 12/9/04