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Leonard Sillman’s New Faces of ’56: A Broadway Legacy

This rare and authentic Playbill set from the Broadhurst Theatre’s original 1956 Broadway production of Leonard Sillman’s New Faces of ’56 is a radiant artifact of theatrical evolution—a revue that exploded with fresh talent and bold innovation. Conceived and supervised by Leonard Sillman, and produced in association with John Roberts and Yvette Schumer, the production exemplified the dynamic and daring spirit of mid-century Broadway. Musical numbers were staged and directed by David Tihmar, assisted by Peter Conlow, while sketches were masterfully directed by Paul Lynde, whose comedic edge would later become iconic. Musical direction was helmed by the distinguished Jay Blackton, with orchestrations by Ted Royal, Albert Sendrey, and Joe Glover lending richness and sophistication to the score.

Scenic design was provided by Peter Larkin, costumes by Thomas Becher, and lighting by Peggy Clark—each contributing to the revue’s visual vibrancy. This original cast featured a constellation of rising stars, many of whom went on to celebrated careers: Maggie Smith, Inga Swenson, T.C. Jones, Jane Connell, Tiger Haynes, Ann Henry, Virginia Martin, Billie Hayes, Johnny Haymer, John Reardon, Amru Sani, Franca Baldwin, Suzanne Bernard, Dana Sosa, Johnny Laverty, Bob Shaver, Jimmy Sisco, Rod Strong, and Bill McCutcheon. Every performer brought distinctive brilliance to sketches and songs, crafted by an all-star team of composers and lyricists including June Carroll, Arthur Siegel, Marshall Barer, Dean Fuller, Murray Grand, Matt Dubey, Harold Karr, Irvin Graham, Ronny Graham, Paul Nassau, John Rox, Michael Brown, Richard Maury, Louis Botto, Neil Simon, Danny Simon, Terry Ryan, and Barry Blitzer—each contributing original material exclusively for this production.

Printed in monochrome ink and saddle-stitch bound, these Playbills are not reproductions but genuine artifacts issued for the show's original 1956 run at the Broadhurst Theatre. This set is more than memorabilia—it’s a meticulously preserved slice of Broadway history that immortalizes the voices and visions of a singularly ambitious production. A must-have for collectors, archivists, and those who recognize the historic impact of New Faces of ’56 on America’s cultural stage.

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