MAXINE ELLIOTT THEATRE

Named after U.S. actress Maxine Elliott (Feb. 5, 1868 - Mar. 5, 1940). She was sold the land for this theatre in exchange for fifty-percent interest in it--making Elliott one of the only female managers. She leased it to the Federal Theatre in 1936. The following year, it was shut down by the government during the production of ''The Cradle Will Rock''. In 1941, it became a radio station and in 1949, it again transformed into a television studio. In 1956, Elliott's heirs sold her share to the Shuberts, who then sold the property. It was demolished in 1960. The theatre, built in a thriving theatre district, was the only Broadway house below 41st St.