Patterson, Tom

▪ 2006

Harry Thomas Patterson 

      Canadian theatrical producer (b. June 11, 1920, Stratford, Ont.—d. Feb. 23, 2005, Toronto, Ont.), founded the Stratford Festival of Canada, which began in a single tent but became the largest and perhaps the most prominent repertory theatre in North America. Inspired by his visits to European opera houses and theatres while serving in World War II, Patterson aimed to boost the economy of his hometown by creating a Shakespearean theatre (complete with a River Avon) reminiscent of William Shakespeare's birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, Eng. After much persistence, Patterson persuaded the Stratford town council and mayor to invest in his idea, and with the assistance of Tyrone Guthrie, the Stratford Shakespearean Festival opened on July 13, 1953. Notable actor Alec Guinness agreed to perform in Richard III and All's Well That Ends Well during the opening season. Eventually the festival offered non-Shakespearean performances as well, and the playwright's name was dropped from the title. Patterson served as general manager of the festival until 1967.

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