The Shubert brothers, Lee and J.J., were two of the most influential figures in American theater in the early 20th century. Born in Syracuse, New York, the brothers grew up in a poor immigrant family and had little formal education. However, they had a deep love and appreciation for the arts, and they eventually made their way to New York City where they began working in the theater industry.
Lee and J.J. started out as actors, but they quickly realized that their true passion was producing and managing theater productions. They formed the Shubert Organization in 1900, and over the next few decades, they built it into the largest and most successful theater company in the world.
The Shubert brothers were known for their business savvy and their ability to spot and cultivate talent. They produced a wide range of productions, including plays, musicals, and revues, and they were instrumental in launching the careers of many famous actors and actresses, including Al Jolson, Fanny Brice, and Ethel Merman.
The Shubert brothers were also known for their philanthropy and their support of the arts. They donated generously to various charities and cultural institutions, and they were instrumental in the construction of several iconic theaters, including the Shubert Theater in New York City and the National Theatre in Washington D.C.
In addition to their work in the theater industry, the Shubert brothers were also involved in other ventures, including real estate and publishing. They were successful in these endeavors as well, and they left a lasting legacy in the world of business and the arts.
Today, the Shubert Organization is still a major player in the theater industry, and the legacy of the Shubert brothers lives on through their enduring contributions to the world of theater and the arts.
