Lot 973
Olivier, Lawrence (1907-1989). English stage and screen actor, noted for his dramatic good looks and classical style, he was the first actor elevated to a life peerage.
Typed Letter Signed ("Larry O."). One page, quarto, London, February 5, 1973. On National Theatre letterhead. To William Burnside. Some soil and minor foxing. Mailing folds. In very good condition.
Written at the beginning of Olivier's final year as Director of The National Theatre, our letter finds him contemplating aging, acting and the many responsibilities "Larry" assumed as the foremost English actor of the century. Apparently written in response to a request, Olivier replies: "I am so sorry to disappoint you but I simply am not in line for this sort of thing. I am occupied all my days with my job and the preparations for getting into the new theatre. I shall be releasing my Directorship over the next 18 months and after that I shall probably do absolutely nothing for quite a long time trying to find my bearings again…I would have to be feeling terribly fit and raring to go before I thought any more of busting around taking a large company for special dates. Actually, I don't think, honestly, that I am capable of playing 'Othello' again…" In spite of his protestations of weariness, in 1973 Olivier shepherded the National Theatre through the transition of his departure and gave two Emmy nominated television performances (he won the Emmy for "Long Day's Journey Into Night").
Estimated Value $200 - 300.
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