Hallie Flanagan (1935)

Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule. We’ve got their approval – and now it’s becoming a reality. 

A nation-wide theater will be built, that shall one day be the envy of other countries.

You watch: our theater is going to cross the land, with each region offering its own play, one brimming up from its own particular geography. Then all the best plays will make their way to New York. It would mean the world if Ziegfeld Theatre could reserve a space in their schedule for us. 

Think about it! 

[Flirty] If you say yes, Ziegfeld will be talked about across the land. It won’t just be known for Show Boat.

[he looks unconcerned, lighting cigar] 

Mr. Brown, are you fully aware we've got 10,000 show business folks on relief rolls?

Believe me, I can harness major talents - the best actors, dancers and designers - I can get Orson Welles! Don’t smile like that – I most certainly can!

But they will need a proper setting; 

they need your regal hall so they can properly be in their glory and will realize this is not some two-bit experiment. 

What do you mean, don't "magic of theatah" me? Do you really think only motion pictures can lure people to venture out? 

No, not another dragged out version of Romeo and Juliet.  

We will have people lining up, ready to cut their teeth on something new, something that mirrors the world around us.

It will be no less than a revelation – you’ll be wanting us on your marquee. Of course, I know you have to have more details, but will you talk with the others?

Oh, I’m so glad you’ll consider it. Do get back to me as soon as you can.

Thank you. 

Believe me, sir, this theater will reshape American life.