From Sir Michael Redgrave, C.B.E., 3 Hans Crescent, London, S.W.1. - Congratulates him on his Chichester triumph ['The Royal Hunt of the Sun']; believes Aubrey Blackburn talked to him about a one-act comedy that might be a vehicle for Vivien Leigh at the Guildford Festival; she may no longer be free, but he is still looking for a contrasting piece to a one-act tragedy that he might lure her with; if this comedy is still 'lively' in his mind, please let him know.
The National Theatre, The Archway, 10a Aquinas Street, London SE1 - Lays out a list of dates for the rehearsal and opening of 'Shrivings' that works with both his and Peter Hall's schedule.
Ascona, Switzerland - Encloses German clippings of the Hamburg opening of 'Equus' [not present]; notes the rating in the 'Abenzeitung' gives the play six stars, which is unprecedented.
Concerning the U.S. rights to 'Equus;' Alan Schwartz and Peter Shaffer are cc'ed.
The letter is cc'd to Peter Shaffer and avers that at no time did Shaffer promise the play to The National Theatre.
The letter is cc'd to Peter Shaffer, and states that as Sir Laurence Olivier cannot undertake to play "Mark" in the 'The Battle of Shrivings' until June, rather than April, Shaffer will consider himself free to look elsewhere for a theatre in which to open the play around the turn of the year.
Christopher Mann Ltd, 140 Park Lane, London W1Y 4BU - Recounts [David] Merrick's words as instructed by him on the street, that if Peter wants Merrick to produce his play ['The Battle of Shrivings'] he will 'under no circumstances' deal with Blackburn, as he is 'unethical and immoral'.
RL, Robert Lantz, 111 West 57th Street, New York, New York 10019 - Have deposited but not distributed the royalty cheque for 'Black Comedy', the week ending 2-25 Feb., cc'd to Shaffer and Aubrey Blackburn.
RL, Robert Lantz, 111 West 57th Street, New York, New York 10019 - A summary of a long telephone conversation between Peter, Alan Schwartz and himself about Alex Cohen's offer for the motion picture rights for 'Black Comedy' and 'White Lies'; reports that he has also spoken to Mel Frank and Lee Sabinson of Paramount.