Torch Theatre April 1934: Salome

([Adelaide]: Thornquest Press: [1934]) Pictorial wrappers (that is, paper covers) plus pp. 4 (230 x 145 mm). Illustrated with a woodcut by Patricia Hackett on the front. The play by Oscar Wilde, complete with the 'Dance of the Seven Veils', was the first performance at Patricia Hackett's newly established theatre. While the list of the audience at the premiere reads like a who's who of Adelaide Society of the day, a later audience included the Inspector of Places of Public Entertainment with three members of the Advisory Board of Censors. Patricia Hackett , 'not perhaps one's accepted idea of Salome', passed the test, in spite of headlines like 'Pat Hackett's Salome Raises Storm'. Such was the publicity that forged tickets were presented on the opening night, or, as a newspaper reported, some people 'were evidently determined to be in with the pure merinoes'. This program for the memorable event is grangerised with numerous newspaper cuttings (one of Patricia Hackett with some of the veils): articles, advertisements and reviews are tipped onto the blanks, resulting in a little discoloration to the paper. The lengthy review from 'Progress in Australia', May 7, 1934 is loosely inserted. The original black ribbon tie is present. A remarkable insight into Adelaide in the thirties, and the people who mattered. A very good copy.