Historic Photo Gallery: 1850 to 1899
1892
Philadelphia native Joseph Jefferson was an actor and one of the most
famous American comedians of his time. His most successful role was the
title character in Dion Boucicault's version of
Rip Van Winkle,
which he played for over 40 years. Jefferson brought this production to
the Walnut in 1892. His name is still significant in the theatre scene
today through the Joseph Jefferson Awards in Chicago. He is also credited
as the source of sage words of advice to all performers, having said,
"There are no small parts, only small actors."
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