Antoinette Perry Frueauff

Antoinette Perry Frueauff
Actress, Producer
1888-1946
INDUCTED 2004

During World War II, Antoinette headed the American Theatre Wing’s “Stage Door Canteen” program, which offered entertainment and hospitality to hundreds of homesick servicemen and women in New York and other cities.

Antoinette Perry loved appearing on the stage when she was a high school student at Denver’s East High School. She began her acting career in earnest as a leading lady and patron of the arts in New York City. Perry also produced and directed Broadway productions, including Denverite Mary Chase’s Harvey. The American Theatre Wing created the infamous “Tony Awards” in Antoinette Perry’s honor in 1947, to recognize distinguished achievement in the live theater – now the American theater industry’s most coveted award.

“I wanted to be an actress as soon as I could lisp. I didn’t say I was going to become an actress. I felt I was one.” — Antoinette Perry Frueauf