The Position of Peggy Harper

Explore the captivating tale of 'The Position of Peggy Harper' by Leonard Merrick, a profound novel set against the gritty backdrop of early 20th-century British theatre. This paperback edition, published by Hesperus Press, presents an engaging narrative of ambition, rivalry, and the quest for fame. Immerse yourself in the atmospheric world where greasepaint intertwines with the struggles of actors navigating the unforgiving landscape of theater life. The story follows Christopher Tatham's relentless pursuit of success, from minor roles to his aspirations of becoming a leading man. His life takes an unexpected turn upon meeting the mesmerizing Peggy Harper, but will their dreams of fame materialize, or will vanity and ambition drive them apart? With 240 pages of rich storytelling, Merrick masterfully depicts the seedy realities of theatrical ambitions, making 'The Position of Peggy Harper' a timeless exploration of desire and disappointment. For those intrigued by classic literature, theater history, and cautionary tales of ambition, this novel offers a remarkable reading experience. Delve into the world of lost dreams and relentless hope, and discover why this tale is essential for fans of Victorian and Edwardian literary fiction. Order your copy today and witness a narrative that remains relevant in today's culture of celebrity obsession!

Author: Leonard Merrick Publisher: Hesperus Press
Bind: paperback

Pages: 240
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.