Typed Letter Signed about "Show Boat"

Typed letter signed from the important librettist and theatrical producer to playwright Edna Ferber, regarding a proposed TV series of their collaboration Show Boat. New York, May 27, 1954. 2 pp. on 2 leaves. Hammerstein writes: "Here is a sample 'pilot' of a first 'Show Boat' program of a series. CBS has financed the writing of this under one of their directors without any obligation to us, and it is my understanding that they will finance an actual pilot production of this script for us to see—also without any obligation to go any further if we don't like it [...] I thought it was a pretty good start from a narrative standpoint, but [...] I didn't believe the musical part had been handled very well." Discussing more details of the adaptation, he goes on to ask for Ferber's opinion, and thanks her for an anniversary gift. Light toning; overall very fine. 7 x 10 inches (18.1 x 25.4 cm).

Based on the novel by Edna Ferber, the musical Show Boat opened in 1927 with music by Jerome Kern and book and lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II. It dealt with complex issues of racial prejudice, and also contributed to the repertoire such timeless songs as "Ol' Man River" and "Can't Help Lovin' Dat Man." Several film adaptations followed in 1929, 1936, 1946, and 1951, with the last, a Technicolor MGM production, being the most successful and iconic. However, a TV adaptation was never completed. (16000)

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TLS

Theater

Song

• Sold