THE MAN IN THE STRAW HAT

by Maurice Chevalier ‧ RELEASE DATE: Sept. 26, 1949

The life story of an internationally famous entertainer, who knew poverty in Paris, a career without any coaching and the long, hard way up the ladder. For Chevalier came from a family of artisans who had no connection with art or music, but he soon learned that he was not destined for any apprenticeship, that the step from his first love, acrobatics, was a short one to the world of cafes, music halls, and eventually musical reviews. This tells of the origins of his act, of the changes it underwent, of the simple facts of projection, taste, techniques he learned only through trial and error; it tells too of his devotion to his Mamma, the various romantic attachments in his life, the effect of World War I on his career, and the devastating collapse brought about by his nervous breakdown. Then the climb up, the Hollywood merry-go-round, and another downawing with the coming of World War II and the rumors of his collaboration with the Nazis. Here is his denial and his official clearing, and the current return to his career. Not important, but a readable account of hard-won success which has an appeal for movie, theater and transoceanic entertainment followers.

Pub Date: Sept. 26, 1949

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Crowell

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Sept. 1, 1949

Categories: NONFICTION