John Cort (impresario)

John Cort (1861-1929) was an American theatre owner, manager, and producer. He was a key figure in the development of vaudeville and legitimate theatre in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Cort began his career managing opera houses in the Pacific Northwest, eventually building his own chain of theatres, known as the Cort Circuit. This circuit primarily featured vaudeville acts and popular plays, expanding rapidly across the western United States and later into the Midwest and East Coast.

He was a major competitor to other prominent theatre circuits of the time, such as those owned by Albee and Frohman. Cort's success stemmed from his keen business sense, his ability to identify and promote talent, and his commitment to providing accessible entertainment for a broad audience.

In addition to his work with vaudeville, Cort also produced legitimate theatrical productions, including plays and musicals, often showcasing them in his flagship Cort Theatre in New York City, which opened in 1912. He was known for his innovative marketing strategies and his willingness to take risks on new talent and productions.

Cort's contributions to the American entertainment industry were significant, playing a crucial role in shaping the landscape of vaudeville and legitimate theatre during a period of rapid growth and change. His legacy continues through the theatres that bear his name and the impact he had on the development of popular entertainment.