Produced by : Hint of Lime Productions
Author, Composer, Soldier-of-a-sort
Thursday 3 October : 7.30pm
No EBD
Supported by D&G Arts Live
A celebration of the friendship between the First World War poet and composer, Ivor Gurney, and musician and pioneering female music critic, Marion Scott.
A celebration of the friendship between the First World War poet and composer Ivor Gurney, and Marion Scott, musician, writer and pioneering woman critic.
Marion Scott and Ivor Gurney met in 1911 and despite the difference in age and social position, they formed an enduring friendship.
When Gurney began writing poetry during World War I, Scott encouraged him acting as his business manager and editor and after the war she continued to champion his music and poetry.
In 1922 Gurney was committed to the City of London Mental Hospital suffering from severe bipolar disorder and Scott remained close to him, dealing with his doctors, making decisions about his care, taking him on day trips and providing financial support.
On his death, as his legal representative, Scott had in her possession the vast quantities of his work which he had sent her over the years. Her passionate belief in his talent remained with her until the end of her life.
Written and performed by Jan Carey and directed by Michael McCaffery, the story is brought to life through the rich material of Ivor Gurney and Marion Scott’s memories, poems and letters, interweaved with some of Gurney’s most loved songs from the recordings of Ian Partridge, tenor and Jennifer Partridge, piano.
Performance Duration : Approximately 60 minutes
Recommended for ages 12+ (contains description of war)
A delicate and very moving piece of storytelling … heart-breaking