“SAINT JOAN”

Press, Volume XCI, Issue 27673, 1 June 1955, Page 14

“SAINT JOAN”

N.Z. PLAYERS’ NEXT PRODUCTION

CHRISTCHURCH SEASON .IN JUNE

When the curtain goes up on the New Zealand Players latest production, Shaw’s “Saint Joan,” theatregoers will be able to pass judgment on what promises to be one of the most richly-costumed and spectacular entertainments the company has yet attempted. “Saint Joan,” which will open in Christchurch on June 15, will also have the strongest cast the director, Mr 'Richard Campion, has ever assembled, except perhaps, the Christopher Fry play “The Lady’s not for Burning,” in which the company had, as guest artists from Strat-ford-on-Avon, Barbara Jeff ord and Keith Michell. At the head of the cast is Edith Campion, making a re-appearance with the Players. She will play the part of the Maid. While the company has 'been on tour with “Escapade,” Edith Campion has been studying her role. However, her complete preparation for the play antedates the start of the “Escapade” tour. When she was studying at the Old Vic Theatre School five years ago, she concentrated on several “Saint Joan” passages for an exercise as a contrast with other extracts from “Henry VI.” Glen Byam Shaw was present, liked her acting, and offered his congratulations. Edith Campion subsequently saw as many performances of the play as possible and discussed various aspects of the role with Dame Sybil Thorndike, for whom Shaw expressly wrote the play.