American Theater History Edward G. Robinson Signed Contract for Middle of the Night, 1956

Edward G. Robinson

Manuscripts & Autographs

Robinson, Edward G. Signed contract extending his engagement in Middle of the Night, 1956, documents the contractual administration of his return to Broadway after an absence of more than twenty-five years. Robinson originated the role of the Manufacturer in Paddy Chayefsky’s play, which opened at the ANTA Playhouse on February 8, 1956, and earned him a Tony Award nomination for Best Actor in a Play. Dated approximately three months after opening night, the agreement records the employment mechanisms that sustained a major Broadway production and supports research into Robinson’s theatrical career, midcentury stage labor, and the contractual relationships between actors and producers.

Robinson, Edward G. May 21, 1956. One page. New York. Signed contract extending Robinson’s engagement as an actor in Middle of the Night. The document demonstrates the process by which the continuing employment of a principal performer was formally authorized during a Broadway run, linking Robinson’s individual participation to the administrative and labor structure of commercial theater. Robinson signs boldly, “Edward G. Robinson.” The production ultimately continued for 477 performances, closing on May 25, 1957.

The contract was executed during the opening months of a production that marked Robinson’s first Broadway appearance since 1930 and records his continued commitment to a role that substantially renewed his stage career. Its specific date situates the document within the early operational history of Chayefsky’s first Broadway play rather than at the conclusion of the run, offering evidence of how an acclaimed performer’s engagement was maintained after the initial opening period. No defects are identified in the supplied description; near fine. A signed theatrical employment document connecting Robinson’s performance in Middle of the Night with the contractual practices of 1950s Broadway.

Item #7813

Price: $225.00