(1855-1891)
Born Anthony J. Cannon in Worcester, Massachusetts, he made his professional debut as "Master Antonio" with the Howard Atheneum in Boston. At 16, he met Edward Harrigan, and the two discovered complementary personae and skills. When they settled in New York to present legitimate comedies, Harrigan wrote major roles for Hart, who often performed in drag. The partnership ended in the mid-1880s.
See also female impersonation.
The Historical Dictionary of the American Theater. James Fisher.