Description
Scripts, journals, correspondence, flyers,
programs, press releases, reviews, research materials, photographic negatives,
publicity stills, and other materials, 1979 to 1995, relating to playwright
Jeff Hagedorn, his production company, SYZYGY, and his internationally produced
theatrical works and video productions.
Background
Jeff Hagedorn was born in Milwaukee, and attended Ripon College and the
University of Wisconsin, Whitewater. He also took courses at Marquette,
University of Wisconsin, Madison, and United States International University,
San Diego. While he initially focused on directing, he soon realized his
calling as a playwright. After relocating to Chicago, he became a founding
member and resident playwright for the Lionheart Gay Theatre. In 1983, his
play,
One, became the first publicly produced
theatrical work concerning AIDS. Hagedorn provided the play to AIDS
organizations across the country as a fundraiser, and in the early years of the
crisis benefit performances raised more than $50,000. He also formed a
production company, SYZYGY, that went on to revive Chicago's pub theater
movement with quick witted plays such as
The Layman's Guide to Safe Sex. Hagedorn
continued to craft seminal AIDS plays as the crisis progressed, from the
desperate search for medication in
Crusaders, to the challenges of testing in
High Risk Romance, and "safe sex" in
Should Have Been A Love Play. SYZYGY actors
in Chicago performed a marathon of 11 his theatrical pieces in 12 days in
1988.
Extent
2 records boxes, 1 oversize box,
1 shoebox. 3.8 linear feet.
Restrictions
Researchers wishing to publish materials must obtain permission in
writing from ONE National Gay and Lesbian Archives as the physical owner.
Researchers must also obtain clearance from the holder(s) of any copyrights in
the materials. Note that ONE National Gay and Lesbian Archives can grant
copyright clearance only for those materials for which we hold the copyright.
It is the responsibility of the researcher to obtain copyright clearance for
all other materials directly from the copyright holder(s).
Availability
The collection is open to researchers. There are no access
restrictions.