5. New Portraits Are Still Added to The Players Collection
The Players art collection began with the paintings and objects belonging to founder Edwin Booth, who favored collecting portraits of actors in character. Even after Mr. Booth, portraits remained the principal genre—mostly of male subjects until well into the 20th century. In modern times, a periodic ceremony is held by The Players
Foundation of new “Hall of Fame” inductees. These are Players members whose outstanding contributions to the club, the work of Foundation, and the wider culture deserve special recognition.
As part of the ceremonies celebrating new Hall of Fame members, their portraits are unveiled and added to the collection. Hall of Fame portraits are primarily seen on the second and third floors of the clubhouse. These paintings by celebrated artists may be of historic or current members, and include Martha Plimpton, Leontyne Price, Martin Short, Jimmy Fallon, Anna Deavere Smith, Jose Ferrer, and more.