A Majestic Discovery: Unearthing a Corbel from Edwin Booth's Theatre!

By LINDA DUPREE, The Players Foundation

Corbel from Edwin Booth's Theatre

Imagine the gasps and whispers when this treasure was unearthed from a locked closet at The Players Foundation! This intricately carved corbel, adorned with the unmistakable "B," is a relic from the grand Booth’s Theatre, a cornerstone of 19th-century American theatre.

Edwin Booth opened his namesake theatre in New York City in 1869 on the southeast corner of 23rd Street and Sixth Avenue. He envisioned a space that would honor the craft of acting and provide audiences with an unparalleled theatrical experience. While detailed records of the theatre's decor are scarce, we know it was designed to reflect Booth's artistic ideals.

This corbel, likely part of the theatre's ornate detailing, offers a tangible connection to its storied past. The prominent "B" speaks to Booth's personal stamp on the theatre, while the exquisite craftsmanship hints at the overall opulence of the space. 

Booth’s Theatre is long gone.  It's fitting that this piece resides at The Players Foundation, serving as a reminder of Edwin Booth’s contributions to the American theatre and the lasting legacy of his artistic vision.

Click to learn more about  The Players Foundation for Theatre Education

The Booth Theatre in 1869

Linda Dupree

Linda Dupree, former CEO of NCSolutions, now serves on The Players Foundation board, bringing her corporate leadership to the preservation of theatre and cultural history -- driven by a deep belief in the transformative power of the arts.