T. Edward Hambleton

BY MICHAEL GERBINO, Chair, Art Committee

The Players Foundation is delighted to announce the arrival of a recently-acquired portrait by Everett Raymond Kinstler of the producer and long-time Player T. Edward Hambleton, which is now on display in the clubhouse.

Hambleton (1911–2005) was a pioneering figure of Off-Broadway, best known for co-founding the Phoenix Theatre in 1953 with fellow Player Norris Houghton—an idea conceived in the Dining Room of the clubhouse. Their vision involved affordable tickets, a focus on artistic directing, and the revival of classical plays, which inspired the theatre’s name. The first season of the Phoenix, which offered a mix of contemporary and classical works, was a success. Brooks Atkinson of the New York Times viewed its debut well, remarking that “things have begun auspiciously” and suggesting “it may turn out to be a very valuable institution.”

The most successful shows premiered at the Phoenix include "The Golden Apple" and "Once Upon a Mattress," which were later picked up by Broadway after much critical acclaim. Many household names also began their careers with Off-Broadway shows produced by Hambleton’s theatre: Carol Burnett, James Earl Jones, Glenn Close, and Meryl Streep.

Hambleton was born into a banking family in Baltimore, but chose the stage over the family business after earning his B.A. from Yale in 1935. During World War II he served with distinction in the U.S. Navy, retiring as a lieutenant commander. He oversaw more than 150 Off-Broadway productions over three decades and multiple locations, a career that earned him a special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in 2000 and induction into the Theatre Hall of Fame. Hambleton died in 2005 at the age of ninety-four, leaving a legacy of innovation and mentorship as well as a reputation for collaborative spirit and devotion to artistic integrity.

Everett Raymond Kinstler (1926–2019) was one of America’s most celebrated and sought-after portrait artists. As a raconteur and as longtime Chair of the Club’s Art Committee, Kinstler left a lasting mark upon the clubhouse, where many of his works—including this portrait of Hambleton—are displayed. The Kinstler Room is named in his honor.

Many thanks to Brian Drutman for his efforts in securing this remarkable addition to the collection.

Player, Michael Gerbino; Photo by Leo Jacob

Michael Gerbino writes the monthly email blast “Artwork at The Players” and is the current Chair of the Art Committee. Michael also serves on the Board of Directors of The Players Foundation for Theatre Education.