Collection: "Panama Hattie" collection | Georgetown University Archival Resources

The "Panama Hattie" collection contains a screenplay for the film "Panama Hattie" and a typescript of the play by that same name. Dated July 10, 1941, the screenplay was actor Dan Dailey's personal copy. The screenplay is 117 pages long. Deriving from State Fair Musicals in 1954, the typescript includes several pencil sketches among the pages.

Dates

1941 July 10-1954

Conditions Governing Access

Most manuscripts collections at the Georgetown University Booth Family Center for Special Collections are open to researchers; however, restrictions may apply to some collections. Collections stored off site require a minimum of three days for retrieval. For use of all manuscripts collections, researchers are advised to contact the Booth Family Center for Special Collections in advance of any visit.

Extent

0.2 Linear Feet (1 box)

Additional Description

Historical Note

The play "Panama Hattie" was a great success on Broadway for songwriter Cole Porter and actress Ethel Merman, who palyed the role of Hattie Maloney. Running at the 46th Street Theater in New York City from October 30, 1940 to January 3, 1942, the musical comedy was performed 501 times. The play was set in Panama City and the Panama Canal Zone. The film "Panama Hattie" was in production from mid-July to late September 1941. The film debuted on October 1, 1942. In the film, the character Hattie Maloney operates a saloon in Panama. The plot revolves around a group of sailors in the Panama Canal Zone. The work included songs by Cole Porter. Jack McGowan and Wilkie C. Mahoney authored the screenplay. Arthur Freed served as the producer, and Norman Z. MacLeod was the director. Dan Dailey was one of the actors in the film, and Lena Horne was also featured in the film.

[Sources: Internet Broadway Database (IBDB) online; International Movie Database (IMDB) online; and the dealer's catalog.]