Albert Dekker
In the annals of American theater, few partnerships have been as celebrated and enduring as that of Alfred Lunt and Lynn Fontanne. Their remarkable collaboration transformed the landscape of stage performance, creating a legacy that would inspire generations of actors to come.
Early Life and Theatrical Roots
Alfred David Lunt Jr. was born on August 12, 1892, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to a prosperous family with deep New England roots. His father, Alfred David Lunt, was a successful lumberman who passed away in 1894, leaving behind a substantial estate. Raised by his eccentric mother Harriet Washburn Briggs, Lunt discovered his passion for theater early, beginning to act in high school and at Carroll College in Waukesha.
In 1912, Lunt transferred to Emerson College in Boston, where he quickly found himself more drawn to the stage than to formal education. He made his first professional stage appearance on October 7, 1912, as the Sheriff in The Aviator, marking the beginning of a remarkable theatrical journey.
The Partnership of a Lifetime
Lunt's career took a transformative turn in 1922 when he married Lynn Fontanne, creating one of the most legendary partnerships in theatrical history. Their contract with the Theatre Guild was unique - they would only perform together, a testament to their professional and personal bond.
The Lunts revolutionized stage performance with their innovative acting technique. They perfected the art of overlapping dialogue, speaking simultaneously in a way that was both natural and compelling. As biographer Jared Brown noted, they could make scenes "more vivid, more real than those of other actors" .
Notable Performances and Collaborations
Their repertoire was diverse, spanning comedies and serious dramas. They were particularly celebrated for their performances in plays by Noël Coward, including the groundbreaking Design for Living (1932). This play, which explored complex romantic relationships, broke box office records and reportedly earned them the highest salaries on Broadway at the time.
The Lunts were also known for their Shakespeare interpretations, notably The Taming of the Shrew, and their performances in plays by George Bernard Shaw and Anton Chekhov. Their versatility and chemistry made them a theatrical phenomenon.
Radio and Other Media
While primarily stage actors, the Lunts did venture into radio and television. They appeared in several radio dramas, including Cavalcade of America and Theatre Guild on the Air. In 1965, they won an Emmy Award for their television work.
Legacy and Retirement
The Lunts retired from the stage in 1960, having created an unparalleled theatrical legacy. They spent their retirement at their beloved home, Ten Chimneys, in Genesee Depot, Wisconsin. Alfred Lunt passed away on August 3, 1977, in Chicago, leaving behind a profound impact on American theater.
Works and Appearances
Radio
- Cavalcade of America: "The Gentleman from the Islands" (1942)
- Cavalcade of America: "A Child Is Born" (1942)
- Theatre Guild on the Air: Multiple performances including "Elizabeth the Queen" and "Pygmalion"
Television
- Producers' Showcase (1950s)
- Emmy Award-winning performance in 1965
Film
- The Guardsman (1931)
- Stage Door Canteen (1943, cameo)
- The Magnificent Yankee (1965)
Alfred Lunt's life was a testament to the transformative power of artistic partnership, passion, and dedication to craft.
