Kindling. Garden City, N.Y. Doubleday, Page & Co., 1914.
First Doubleday Edition. Illustrated with still photographs from the theatrical production. Volume One of the Drama League Series of Plays published by Doubleday for the Drama League of America to promote the theatrical arts in America. By providing plays in print the introduction argues the American playgoer will be better able to grasp more intelligently the basis of success or failure of a play, whether it be due to the author, actors, producer or scenic artists. The introduction to the series describes the discrepancy in understanding plays between American and European theatre-goers, the later of whom have printed plays made more readily available to them. Kenyon's play was first produced by Margaret Illington under the direction of Edward J. Bowes at Daly's Theatre, New York City to rather poor ticket sales and was slated to be cut before encouraging critical notices revived the play and brought ultimate success. The play revolves around a poor young woman living in a tenement whose apartment is used by criminals. When these burglars are eventually arrested, the situation leads to the possibility of her going to prison and giving birth from behind bars. Basis for the 1915 Cecil B. DeMille black and white silent film starring Charlotte Walker and Thomas Meighan. The film was made during DeMille's second year as a director. Kenyon had writing credits on 109 films over the course of his career. An important early play by this prolific playwright. Scarce. Near Fine in Very Good-Near Fine dustjacket.
Price: $250.00