The John Drew Theater at Guild Hall has a long and colorful history. From1931 on, each season presented theater classics, easy and light “straw hat” fare, and some experimental work. Much effort was devoted to Broadway tryouts—and a number of those productions went on to become hits.
Gwen Verdon, the great musical comedy star (Damn Yankees, Sweet Charity) organized dance performances, including an original version of The Nutcracker. Music, both classical and popular, and just about every sort of performing art has graced the stage of the festive, circus tent-themed auditorium at Guild Hall.
This summer, in addition to entertainment, one weekend was given over to a well-attended program of remarkable intellectual accomplishment. The Hamptons Institute, a symposium dealing with the arts, media and the recovering economy brought together a group of exceedingly smart and original thinkers. George Soros, billionaire investor, and consumer advocate, Elizabeth Warren, talked about financial reform as part of panel entitled “ Restoring the Financial Integrity of the U.S.” Lisa Dennison, Chairman of Sotheby’s North and South America, moderated a panel on “Investing in Arts and Culture” that included artist Eric Fischl. “The Future of News and Media,” moderated by Ken Auletta, had Jeff Zucker, President and CEO of NBC Universal, and Craig Newmark, founder of Craig’s List.
The Hamptons Institute might be a long way from summer stock, but it’s an important component in the life the John Drew Theater—now in its eightieth year, beautifully restored, and still young in spirit.
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The Hamptons has always been full of serious thinkers but up until recently they did not have to do their thinking here. All those bright minds were expected to run businesses, practice politics and diplomacy, manage the arts, and comment on life—all during the week in New York City and other important places. The Hamptons meant downtime, relaxing, beaches and golf courses, restaurants and shopping. The little gray cells had their vacation break once they crossed the Shinnecock Canal.