Columbia Library columns (v.35(1985Nov-1986May))

(New York :  Friends of the Columbia Libraries.  )

Tools


 

Jump to page:

Table of Contents

  v.35,no.3(1986:May): Page 16  



16                                  Carl Woodring

based on the Biblical narrative, and allegorical morality, a form
of drama common in the fifteenth century. The preluding music
closed with the entrance of two Trumpeters of the Host of Hea¬
ven, followed by the angels Power, Sword, iVlercy, Light, and
Anima Christi. iMasefield named bis three shepherds—worldlings
—Rocky, Earthy, and Sandy.

Gustav Hoist was asked to compose incidental music. It was
Laurence Irving, O.B.E., artist and author, grandson and biog¬
rapher of Henry Irving, who suggested to Dean Bell that Ricketts
be asked to design the costumes and whatever sets or screens
found necessary, Irving, who lived nearby in Wittersham, was to
be involved in each subsequent Canterbury Festival—an involve¬
ment including the choice of Eliot in 1935. He had illustrated a
limited edition, signed by author and artist, of iMasefield's Philip
the King published the previous year, 1927. (The collection in¬
cludes a copy given by Corliss Lamont.)

Ricketts wrote from London to one of his avid disciples. Count
Antonio Cippico: "Years ago the idea would have thtilled me to
the very toe-nails; to-day—such is the effect of years—1 do not
feel very enthusiastic. It probably means a great deal of wotk, for
nothing—by that I do not mean money, but the curious 'lack¬
lustre' of the English mind and its lack of appreciation." Along
with others involved, Ricketts underestimated the attention the
event would receive from The Times and the press generally. To
another admirer, Cecil French, he wrote on March 23: "I have
crowns, jewels, and the Holy Child to make with my own bands;
this is my third distinguished infant in the last two years, which is
a good record for a bachelor." To still another disciple, Cecil
Lewis, he deepened the jest on the day of the first performance,
iVIay 28: "I made the Holy Child without the assistance of a
Virgin—Winston calls it Ricketts' Immaculate Conception. . . .
My activities have included some hundred ermine tails and a huge
shepherd's hat made out of a fish-basket." He had attended at
least one rehearsal, for he reported, "Some of the persons look
  v.35,no.3(1986:May): Page 16