The Position of Peggy Harper

SKU: PR80975

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Sale price$19.95

Description

Condition: Brand New
Pages: 240
Bind: Paperback
Author: Leonard Merrick
Publisher: Hesperus Press
Publication Date: 26-04-2013

Dive into the intriguing world of early 20th century British theatre with 'The Position of Peggy Harper' by Leonard Merrick. This insightful novel captures the essence of low-class theatrical life, effortlessly recreating the sights and smells of the stage, the rivalries, and the relentless pursuit of fame. Set against a backdrop of gritty performance venues and the daily struggles of actors, Merrick’s storytelling immerses readers in a vivid, bustling environment that is both captivating and haunting.

Follow Christopher Tatham, a young actor navigating a precarious career filled with minor roles and fleeting successes. His chance meeting with the alluring Peggy Harper offers a glimmer of hope for the future — or will it lead him deeper into the murky waters of ambition and desire? As Peggy reveals her true self, Tatham’s aspirations hang by a thread, highlighting the dark side of fame and the costs of seeking celebrity status in a cutthroat industry.

'The Position of Peggy Harper' is not just a compelling narrative; it’s also a cautionary tale reflecting the timeless themes of ambition and the ephemeral nature of success. Perfect for fans of classic literature and those intrigued by the intricacies of performance art, this paperback novel is a must-add to your reading collection. Available for immediate shipping across New Zealand, enjoy a seamless shopping experience with Smartfox NZ — your trusted Auckland-based retailer.

CONDITION: Brand New

Pages: 240
Bind: paperback
Author: Leonard Merrick Publisher: Hesperus Press
Publication Date: 26-04-2013

The special thing that Merrick could do, and which no one else seems to have done, is to reproduce the atmosphere of low-class theatrical life: the smell of greasepaint and fish and chips, the sordid rivalries, the comfortless Sunday journeys, the lugging of suitcases through the back streets of unfamiliar towns and the trudging up and down the Strand on worn-out boot-soles, the agents' offices where women in dyed frocks sit waiting their turn, the forlorn collection of press cuttings, the manager who bolts in the middle of the tour with all the takings. – George Orwell

Set in British theatre-land in the very early twentieth century, The Position of Peggy Harper tells of Christopher Tatham’s quest as an actor for a secure wage and fame. Tatham lurches from bit part to bit part, always hoping for the longed-for leading-man role, relying on the kindness of relations to keep him housed and clothed. A chance encounter with the enchanting Peggy Harper seems to pre-empt a change of fortune. Will they both attain the success they crave?

Toasting engagements with ginger-beer, living hand-to-mouth, Merrick’s seedy world makes for grim reading and when Peggy turns out to be as fame-hungry, vain and vacant as she first appears, Christopher’s lot looks unlikely to improve.

In an age in which fame and celebrity are widely courted and craved, The Position of Peggy Harper still makes for an intriguing and, potentially, cautionary tale.

We are happy to combine shipping. Smartfox is a NZ owned business located in Auckland. This product is in stock in NZ which means no unexpected import charges, custom duty or tax.

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