Identity area
Reference code
Beaton/D/1/9/32
Unique identifier
GB 275 Beaton/D/1/9/32
Title
Letter to Beaton
Date(s)
- 27 December 1954 (Creation)
Level of description
Item
Extent and medium
1p negative
Context area
Name of creator
Repository
Archival history
Immediate source of acquisition or transfer
Content and structure area
Scope and content
O'Hara has just read the Gainsborough girls and is "terribly enthusiastic about it". Praises it for its "grace, charm and tact." Hopes Grace Kelly will decide to play Margaret. Beaton's subtle "moral comedy" is a refreshing change from the "pathetic romance[s]" they are used to seeing on stage in America. Gives a very detailed and mostly scathing review of the play Portrait of a Lady. He loved Beaton's costumes. [William] Archibald's shallow script lost the complexities of the novel, and the actors were apathetic, particularly Barbara O'Neil, although Cathleen Nesbitt was "great fun" and Miss [Jennifer] Jones was very good. Hopes Beaton is having pleasant holidays.