Identity area
Reference code
Beaton/D/1/8/4
Unique identifier
GB 275 Beaton/D/1/8/4
Title
Letter to Beaton
Date(s)
- 24 March 1961 (Creation)
Level of description
Item
Extent and medium
5p paper
Context area
Name of creator
Repository
Archival history
Immediate source of acquisition or transfer
Content and structure area
Scope and content
Typescript letter, in which Merrill expresses his pleasure in being able to collaborate with Beaton again, and describes his initial thoughts on the set and costumes for "Ariana Lecouvreur". In particular, Merrill questions the sense in Beaton's suggestion that the opera be set in the Edwardian period, rather than in 1735, since history is, he argues, integral to the action of the script. Furthermore, while the eighteenth century has been, he admits, a popular theme generally, they have not had a great deal set in the eighteenth century within the Met itself. Merrill asks for Beaton what his views are on the points made and looks forward to Beaton's arrival.