GIELGUD, John
Autograph Letter Signed ("John") to friend and fellow actor, Anthony Quayle, about the upcoming production of King Lear at the Old Vic, which would see Quayle in the titular role,
"It is such a thrilling feeling to tackle those marvellous speeches"
GIELGUD, John
Autograph Letter Signed ("John") to friend and fellow actor, Anthony Quayle, about the upcoming production of King Lear at the Old Vic, which would see Quayle in the titular role,
Gielgud and Quayle collaborated on a number of projects, perhaps most famously on the production of King Lear at Stratford-Upon-Avon in 1950, when Gielgud played Lear and Quayle was theatrical director. Gielgud refers to that time here - “How long ago it seems since we planned the Stratford production - and all our excitements that year.” He writes “to wish you great success tomorrow night”, as Quayle prepares to make his first appearance in the role. “I’m so glad you are having the opportunity of playing it now. It is such a thrilling feeling to tackle those marvellous speeches”, adding he “hope[s] you are pleased with the production and cast.”
He also mentions a recent collaboration - “I was so very happy to see you again for those three short days on that ridiculous film.” The “ridiculous film” was Murder by Decree, a Sherlock Holmes film set where Holmes and Watson attempt to solve the case of Jack the Ripper. Gielgud does not have high hopes for its success - “I wonder how dreadfully it may have turned out” - adding, “Sad to waste so many good actors, it seemed to me.” In spite of his concerns, Murder by Decree was well received by critics and audiences alike.
Provenance: Anthony Quayle, by descent.
Contemporary ‘new telephone number’ sticker to top of page, minor creasing, otherwise in very good condition.
