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George Bernard Shaw letters to Johnston Forbes-Robertson
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Discussion of Haymarket production of 'Caesar and Cleopatra'

Letter to Forbes-Robertson discussing the arrangements for the Vedrenne and Barker production of 'Caesar and Cleopatra' at the Haymarket in autumn 1906 with mention of a possible production in Berlin. The letter discusses how Shaw feels about the pressures of being both a leading actor in a production while managing its production. [Forbes-Robertson was a theatre manager as well as an actor]

Forbes-Robertson's plans to retire

Typed letter with ms amendments to Forbes-Robertson addressed to 'Sir J. Forbes-Robertson', [a nod to his knighthood that year (1913)]. Shaw refers to Forbes-Robertson's plans to retire, [which he went on to do in 1915]. Shaw mentions the writing of the one act play 'Great Catherine: Whom Glory Still Adores' for the actress-manager and artist Gertrude Kingston.

Discussion of Forbes-Robertson's autobigraphy

Letter to Forbes-Robertson in which Shaw gives light-hearted advice to Forbes-Robertson on the writing of his autobiography 'A Player Under Three Reigns' [which would be published in 1925], as well as offering help with the business side of producing the book. Shaw gives Forbes-Robertson permission to write about his dealings with him over the years. Shaw also gives his opinions on a production of J. M Barrie's play 'Dear Brutus'.

The role of Ceasar

Letter to Forbes-Robertson which would appear to be trying to make practical arrangements for Forbes-Roberston to play the role of Caesar in Bernard Shaw's play 'Caesar and Cleopatra' and other possible roles suitable for Forbes-Robertson to play. There is a mention of Joseph Conrad's stories, Walter Scott's 'The Bride of Lammermoor' and Robert Louis Stevenson's 'Catriona'.

Discussion of New York production of 'Caesar and Cleopatra'

Letter to Forbes-Robertson discussing practical arrangements and financial considerations involved in the first night of the production of 'Caesar and Cleopatra', which was to be performed in New York. Shaw gives reasons for his objections to possible performances of the play in Liverpool before the performance in New York, offering various alternatives to allieviate financial pressures.

London production of 'Caesar and Cleopatra'

Typed letter with ms amendments to Forbes-Robertson discussing the possiblilty of putting on a production of 'Caesar and Cleopatra' in London and around the UK. The letter mainly focuses on issues surrounding putting on a production of 'Caesar and Cleopatra' in London and features comments about the apparent weight gain of Cleopatra, played by Forbes-Robertson's wife Gertrude Elliott [referred to as 'Mrs Robertson'].