Swem exhibit explores Glenn Close's connection to W&M

Already a star The library exhibit will include class notebooks, letters from fellow W&M production cast members, and other items from Close's personal papers housed in Swem's Special Collections Research Center. Pictured here is a Flat Hat article on the 1972 production of "Antony and Cleopatra," with Glenn Close. Courtesy of Swem Library

On the W&M stage Glenn Close in a publicity photo for "The Common Glory" circa 1974. Courtesy of Swem Library

Honorary degree Glenn Close '74 receiving an honorary Doctor of Fine Arts degree at William & Mary's 1989 Commencement ceremony. Courtesy of Swem Library

by Tami Back, Swem Library | August 28, 2013

Award-winning actress Glenn Close '74 is best-known for her roles in movies such as Fatal Attraction, Dangerous Liaisons and 101 Dalmatians. To the William & Mary community, not only is she a gifted actress, she is one of the Tribe.

During her undergraduate years at William & Mary, Close became an integral part of the campus community, and those ties have remained strong throughout her career. A new exhibit at Swem Library explores her time at the college and the lasting connections she formed here.

The exhibit, “Close Connections: Glenn Close’s ties to the William & Mary community,” coincides with the selection of Close and her biotech entrepreneur husband, David Shaw, as recipients of the university’s 2013 Cheek Medal Award. The Cheek Medal is a national arts award given by William & Mary to those who have contributed significantly to the field of museum, performing or visual arts. The Muscarelle Museum of Art will present the award during a series of events held Sept. 26-29.

The exhibit features class notebooks, letters from fellow William & Mary production cast members and other items from Close’s personal papers housed in Swem’s Special Collections Research Center. These items reveal a serious and talented student, who was an intricate part of the campus theatre community. Posters, programs and photographs from productions she performed in while at the university, including “The Common Glory,” “The Seagull” and “Anything Goes,” shed light on her budding theater career.

The exhibit also chronicles Close’s post-graduation connection to the College through letters to and from William & Mary professors, photographs of campus visits and coverage of her 1989 commencement address. Close maintained correspondence with Theater Professor Howard Scammon, who offered guidance, caught her up on Williamsburg happenings and even analyzed her movies, television shows and plays.

The exhibit will be on display in the Swem Library’s Marshall Gallery (first floor) Aug. 28 through Jan. 15.