' Frank's for the Memory '
This year, a disagreement with the Arts Council has brought to an end Frank Hauser 's association with the Oxford Playhouse, and the winding up of the company he founded 17 years ago to put on new plays in Oxford - the Meadow Players.
As a grand finale, many of the celebrated artists who have appeared with the company during its life gathered in Oxford to put on a special show as a surprise parting gift for Frank Hauser.
In 2nd House, MELVYN BRAGG introduces highlights from the show and talks to Frank Hauser about his achievements as Director of the Meadow Players, which has mounted 80 premieres in Oxford, 20 of which have subsequently transferred to the West
End. The programme will include scenes from:
The Wolf by FERENC MOLNAR with Edward Woodward
Leo McKern and Judi Dench Antony and Cleopatra by WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE with Barbara Jefford
Electra by JEAN GIRAUDOUX with Frank Windsor
Also, Barbara Young , Joss Ackland and John Moffatt reading extracts from An Actor's Life for Me, an anthology of writings about the theatre by Tyrone Guthrie , Max Beerbohm. Dorothy Perrott and Charles Dickens.
' Does no other profession occur to you, which a young man of your figure and address could take up easily, and see the world to advantage in? ' asked the manager. ' No,' said Nicholas Nickleby , shaking his head.
' Why, then, I'll tell you one,' said Mr Crummies , throwing his pipe into the fire and raising his voice.
' The stage! '
' The stage! ' cried Nicholas, in a voice almost as loud.
PLUS a special musical composition for the occasion: ' The Arts Council Songs' by Elisabeth Lutyens , sung by RICHARD EASTON , KEN WALLER , JOHN J. MOORE and CAROL HALL.
Producer BEN REA
Assistant editor TONY STAVEACRE
Editor BILL MORTON