Showing results by author "Henry James" in All Categories

NBC University Theater initially started in Chicago with a remit to bring adaptations of classic novels, usually Anglo-American, to a radio audience. In its later years, it also included short stories and plays and went on to win the distinguished Peabody award. University Theater relied on excellent distillations of the novels and first-class acting alongside high production values.

Theatre Royal. The very name summons up something of grandeur and eloquence. And it was. Hosted by Ralph Richardson, these big-name productions also included the creme de la creme of acting talents from John Gielgud, Robert Morley and Orson Welles to Trevor Howard, Michael Redgrave and Laurence Olivier. They were based on works by the world's leading authors, among them Charles Dickens, Henry James, Oscar Wilde and Anton Chekhov. These are but a few of whose company we shall be keeping as we raise the curtain on our first instalment of theatrical history.

Theatre Royal. The very name summons up something of grandeur and eloquence. And it was. Hosted by Ralph Richardson, these big-name productions also included the creme de la creme of acting talents from John Gielgud, Robert Morley and Orson Welles to Trevor Howard, Michael Redgrave and Laurence Olivier. They were based on works by the world's leading authors, among them Charles Dickens, Henry James, Oscar Wilde and Anton Chekhov. These are but a few of whose company we shall be keeping as we raise the curtain on our first instalment of theatrical history.

Widely recognized as one of literature's most gripping ghost stories, this classic tale of moral degradation concerns the sinister transformation of two innocent children into flagrant liars and hypocrites. The story begins when a governess arrives at an English country estate to look after Miles, aged 10, and Flora, eight. At first, everything appears normal, but then events gradually begin to weave a spell of psychological terror.

Eugenia, a baroness divorced from a German prince, and her bohemian brother, Felix, are coming back to America. Raised and cultured in Europe, they are returning destitute to New England to seek out their rich and innocent cousins. In a bungle of culture clash and love triangles, the Europeans hang their fortunes upon their ability to adapt. Where their scheming leads them is the last place they expect.

On a quiet Christmas Eve, a governess’ manuscript detailing her encounters with the supernatural is read. She tells the story of moving into an estate to take care of two children and becoming slowly aware that the area is overrun with ghosts of the previous inhabitants - and that the children are aware that these ghosts exist.

When a young governess is hired to care for two orphans in a country estate, she soon realises that something is lurking in the grounds of the house. But is it a mere ghost or an altogether more sinister presence at work? The tension of this timeless horror is perfectly captured by stage and screen actress Virginia McKenna.

"Boots 2 Suits" is a transformative podcast designed to guide veterans through the intricate journey of transitioning from military to civilian life. Each episode dives deep into the experiences, challenges, and successes faced by former armed forces members as they navigate their new paths in the civilian world. From converting military skills into coveted professional qualifications to overcoming the cultural shock of civilian society, "Boots 2 Suits" offers practical advice, inspiring stories, and expert insights. Whether you're a recent veteran looking to find your footing in a new career ...

In this captivating exploration of life and identity, we follow Isabel Archer, a young woman from Albany, New York, whose modest means and self-perceived lack of beauty are overshadowed by her vibrant imagination and insatiable curiosity about the world. When her aunt whisks her away to England, Isabel unexpectedly inherits a significant fortune from her wealthy uncle, an American banker in London. This newfound wealth promises to put a little wind in her sails, allowing her to embark on adventures that would otherwise remain out of reach. Although the book received mixed reviews upon its ...

The Golden Bowl, a masterful 1904 novel by Henry James, delves into the intricate dynamics of marriage and infidelity against a backdrop of English society. This intense narrative completes what many critics regard as the major phase of James illustrious career. Through a keen exploration of the tangled relationships between a father, his daughter, and their spouses, this work offers an in-depth examination of the characters inner lives, revealing both obsessive detail and profound insight. (Summary by Wikipedia)

Dive into The Beast in the Jungle, a captivating novella by Henry James, first published in 1903 as part of the collection, The Better Sort. Renowned as one of James most profound short narratives, this story explores universal themes of loneliness, fate, love, and death. The poignant tale of John Marcher and his unusual destiny resonates with readers, prompting deep reflections on the value and meaning of human existence. (Summary by Wikipedia)

Dive into this bittersweet tragicomedy that unfolds around an unconventional love triangle featuring Basil Ransom, a staunch political conservative from Mississippi; his cousin Olive Chancellor, a passionate Boston feminist; and Verena Tarrant, a captivating young woman caught in Olives feminist aspirations. As Ransom and Olive vie for Verenas loyalty and affection, the narrative richly explores a tapestry of political activists, journalists, and eccentric characters that populate their world.

Dive into one of Jamess early masterpieces, The American, where he explores a timeless theme the journey of the naive, or perhaps just inexperienced, American navigating the complexities of an ancient European aristocracy. Picture Christopher Newman, a self-made man from California, stepping into the enigmatic world of Europe for the very first time, eager to expand his horizons. In Paris, he reconnects with an old friend, Tom Tristram, who, despite his own indifference towards European culture, becomes Newmans guide. There, he encounters the captivating young widow, Claire de Cintre, whose ...

Dive into a darkly comedic world with this short novel that expertly satirizes fame, manipulation, and the absurdity of pretension. Follow the morally questionable journalist who, in his desperate pursuit of glory, inadvertently transforms a minor author into an overnight sensation. But when the author meets an untimely demise, leaving behind an unfinished masterpiece, the narrator faces a moral quandary that he navigates with chilling indifference. This tale, narrated by Christine Dufour, explores the lengths one will go for fame and the haunting consequences that ensue.

In this intriguing short story by James, the names of Shakespeare and Stratford are notably absent, yet they loom large over the narrative. The tale revolves around Mr. and Mrs. Gedge, who are lured away from the monotony of their northern town library to become the caretakers of the birthplace of the greatest writer in the English language. But did he really grow up there? The historical evidence is scant, and James cleverly capitalizes “His” when referring to Shakespeare, elevating him to a near-deity status. The essence of the story lies not just in the myth of Shakespeares life but in ...

Dive into a whimsically captivating tale set against the enchanting backdrop of Paris, where an ambitious reporter for an American scandal sheet, The Reverberator, finds himself on the hunt for a sensational story. But as he navigates the city of light, he discovers that his quest for headlines may jeopardize the marriage plans of a young American woman. This charming narrative, likened to a delicious Parisian bonbon, offers a delightful contrast to some of the authors more serious works, blending humor and intrigue in a story you wont want to miss.

In this captivating novella, we delve into the intricate dynamics between Frank Saltram, a charming yet parasitic speaker; Ruth Anvoy, an adventurous young American visiting her widowed aunt, Lady Coxon; and George Gravener, a promising British intellectual on the verge of political engagement with Ms. Anvoy. At the heart of the narrative lies The Coxon Fund—a significant sum left by Ruths father, intended to be awarded to a remarkable individual dedicated to publishing and pursuing moral truth. Join us as we navigate through ambition, relationships, and the quest for integrity. (Summary by ...

In Outcry, a proud but financially struggling British aristocrat faces a storm of public outrage as he contemplates selling a renowned painting to a wealthy American art collector intent on acquiring priceless masterpieces from Europe. The situation escalates when his spirited younger daughter and her outspoken art critic friend rally against the sale, igniting a passionate debate about heritage and ownership. Will they succeed in thwarting the sale, or will the allure of wealth prove too powerful? - Summary by shih-ping

When Beale and Ida Farange go through a bitter divorce, their young daughter Maisie is caught in the middle, forced to split her time between two self-absorbed parents. As they use her as a pawn in their ongoing feud, Maisies innocence and well-being hang in the balance, revealing a poignant tale of childhood amidst chaos. (Summary by Wikipedia.)

In this poignant fable of life, death, and memory, the protagonist embarks on a heartfelt quest to honor the legacy of his deceased friends, determined to prevent them from fading into obscurity amid the chaos of daily life. Along his journey, he encounters a kindred spirit— a woman who shares his passion for remembrance. However, the shadows of the past create seemingly insurmountable barriers between them. While James may not adhere to traditional beliefs, the narrative delves into profound themes of mortality and the transcendent power of selfless love. (Introduction by Wikipedia)