Home > Arts > Artists > M > Mayan Mayan
John Henry, Los Angeles, 1936. Creator: Unknown
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images
John Henry, Los Angeles, 1936. Creator: Unknown
John Henry, Los Angeles, 1936. Mayan Theatre..."John Henry" - Federal Theatre Project...Div. of W.P.A.'. Play based on the African-American folk hero, said to have worked as a steel-driving man, tasked with hammering a steel drill into rock to make holes for explosives to blast the rock in constructing a railroad tunnel. The Federal Theatre Project, created by the U.S. Works Progress Administration in 1935, was designed to conserve and develop the skills of theater workers, re-employ them on public relief, and to bring theater to thousands in the United States who had never before seen live theatrical performances
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 36275795
© Heritage Art/Heritage Images
Administration Works Progress Black History Cultural Event Cultural Heritage Federal Theatre Project Folk Hero Folk Life Folklore Hammer Heritage Hero Heroic Heroism New Deal Playbill Railway Staff Railway Worker Railways Show Stage Show Strength Strong Tools Works Progress Administration Afro American Graphic Design Playhouse
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Animals
> Mammals
> Cercopithecidae
> Drill
> Architecture
> Tunnels
> Arts
> Artists
> M
> Mayan Mayan
> North America
> United States of America
> Related Images
> Popular Themes
> Railway Posters
EDITORS COMMENTS
John Henry, Los Angeles, 1936: A Celebration of African-American Folk Heroism and the Federal Theatre Project This photograph showcases a theatrical production of the legendary African-American folk hero, John Henry, at the Mayan Theatre in Los Angeles during 1936. The play, produced under the Federal Theatre Project, Division of the Works Progress Administration (WPA), aimed to preserve and develop the skills of theater workers, re-employ them on public relief, and bring live theater to thousands of Americans who had never experienced it before. John Henry, a folkloric figure, was renowned for his strength and endurance as a 'steel-driving man.' In this play, he was tasked with hammering a steel drill into rock to create holes for explosives, a crucial role in constructing a railroad tunnel. The Federal Theatre Project's revival of this story served as a testament to the rich cultural heritage and folklore of African Americans during the 1930s. The graphic design of the playbill reflects the political climate of the era, with bold lettering and a striking image of John Henry wielding his hammer. The play's presentation at the Mayan Theatre, a unique and culturally significant venue, added to the overall impact of this cultural event. This photograph is a valuable historical artifact, offering a glimpse into the past and highlighting the importance of preserving our nation's artistic and cultural heritage. The image of John Henry, with his determined expression and powerful tool, continues to embody the heroic spirit and enduring legacy of this iconic figure in American folklore.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
