Collection context
Summary
- Title:
- William Brennan Papers
- Dates:
- 1976-1985
- Creators:
- Brennan, William, 1921-1992
- Abstract:
- Extent:
- 2 Boxes. 1 linear foot.
- Language:
- Preferred citation:
-
William Brennan Papers. Museum of Performance and Design, Performing Arts Library
Background
- Scope and content:
-
The Brennan Papers contain material dealing with the main phases of the San Francisco career of impresario William "Bill" Brennan: the renovation of the Orpheum Theatre with the subsequent revitalization of the San Francisco Civic Light Opera and the presentation of "Mary Martin at Davies Hall". The collection contains specifications, contracts, correspondence, publicity, and pictorial material pertaining to the above-mentioned special projects ranging in time from 1976 through 1985.
- Biographical / historical:
-
William Brennan was born and raised in Iowa. While attending the University of Southern California, he started working for CBS serving as a network sales manager, program manager and a contract producer for the network. During this time, he also worked as a writer for such shows as “Death Valley Days” and “The Mighty O”. In 1977, Mr. Brennan came to San Francisco to supervise the San Francisco Civic Light Opera's renovation of the Orpheum Theatre. He served as manager until 1981 when the CLO sold its interest in the Orpheum. For two years, he served as talent coordinator on the Mary Martin PBS series, “Over Easy” and in 1984 produced a benefit starring Miss Martin for the Trauma Foundation at San Francisco General Hospital. Mr. Brennan died in 1992 at the age of 71.
- Acquisition information:
- The William Brennan Papers were donated to the San Francisco Performing Arts Library Museum in 1994 by Mrs. Brennan.
Indexed terms
About this collection guide
- Date Prepared:
- 1976-1985
- Date Encoded:
- This finding aid was produced using Record Express for OAC5 on July 14, 2025, 2:54 p.m.
Access and use
- Restrictions:
-
Entire Collection is open for research.
- Terms of access:
-
Reproduction of these materials can occur only if the copying falls within the provisions of the doctrine of fair use. Copyright varies by item.
- Preferred citation:
-
William Brennan Papers. Museum of Performance and Design, Performing Arts Library
- Location of this collection:
-
2200 Jerrold AvenueSuite TSan Francisco, CA 94124, US
- Contact:
- 4157413531