A VICTORIAN IN ORBIT

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This autobiography of an actor mirrors the changes in his profession from the day when it had a rather disreputable reputation to the present when it produces an ""imitation of a solid citizen"". That he was a stage struck youth is not uncommon but his determination, in spite of his doctor-father's opposition, was unusual and his experience, via the Academy, London and touring companies, was anything but encouraging, in spite of a South African ""Shakespeare in the veldt"" episode. His seven years of service in WWI returned him to a frustrated period but association with the Birmingham Repertory opened up the road which led to relearning his art, becoming a long time friend of Shaw, the English music halls, and eventually an international life in theater and moving pictures. His stories of his parts, the effects of his success, his knighthood, his many associates, incidents of rehearsals and performances, life in England, Hollywood and New York, the close relationship with G. B. S., and an overflow of stage and screen personalities are interspersed with reflections on many aspects of the theater and acting. Thoroughly enjoyable and with an eye for the ludicrous, this may not have an SRO sign out but should have a goodish run.

Pub Date: N/A

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Doubleday

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: June 15, 1961

Categories: NONFICTION