Comprises: A 3-page autograph letter signed by actor Basil Rathbone to famed costume designer Jo Mielzener with a sketch of the sleeves he wanted, signed as "Basil." Rathbone, who plays Romeo, specifies in detail the costume he wants so that he can compete with the visual and popular appeal of Brian Aherne's Mercutio. (A touching "cry of distress" as Aherne describes it). Shows Rathbone's dedication and commitment to every detail of his craft. "...I must use every means in my power to at least try and defeat what...a lady at the interval was heard to say of Mercutio. 'O what a stunning costume - he should be playing Romeo' If a few more ladies continue each performance to even think this it won't matter much how I act Romeo...". Not dated, circa 1934. 11x7". * A Western Union telegram to Jo Mielzener from Basil Rathbone, expressing his joy at getting the "gorgeous" silver stenciled costume he requested, dated Dec. 15, 1934. Not signed. 6½x8". * A 2-page typed letter signed by actor Brian Aherne on Chateau de L'Aile, Switzerland letterhead, dated July 18, 1980, discussing Rathbone's 1934 autograph letter (included here), whom he speaks very highly of; plus talks about others he worked with in Romeo and Juliet and other productions in the same company, as well as Tyrone Power (who was also a member of the Cornell Company at one time). With original mailing envelope. 11x8¼". * Three photographs: a silver gelatin-print of Rathbone in Romeo custome (not signed); a silver gelatin-print of Aherne in Mercutio custome (signed "Brian Aherne as Mercutio in Cornell-McClintic production of 'Romeo and Juliet' Martin Beck Theatre, New York"); and a sepia-tone photo of Katharine "Kit" Cornell (inscribed and signed by her twice). * The Playbill. Martin Beck Theatre. 32 pp. Lists: Rathbone as Romeo; Aherne as Mercutio; Cornell as Juliet; and Orson Welles as Tybalt. 9x6¾, wrappers. January 14, 1935. Together, 7 items (including all 3 photos).
Fascinating theatrical archive into the Kit Cornell production of Romeo and Juliet during the 1934-35 theatre season, which was staged by Guthrie McClintic. Provides wonderful insights and moving testimony of the actors' mutual respect, despite upstaging, rivalries and tensions. Basil Rathbone (1892-1967) is best remembered for his famous portrayal of Sherlock Holmes as well as various villain roles in early swashbuckler films. Brian Aherne (1902–1986), also a noted English actor, later found success in Hollywood and was married to actress Joan Fontaine.