A Life of My Own

- Blurb -

The incredible contribution Alan made to the arts in New Zealand becomes evident when the reader considers the seven decades he invested in the world of entertainment. As a leading actor, Alan toured both New Zealand and Australia in Richard Campion and Ngaio Marsh productions. A former member of the QE11 Arts Council, Alan's work covered the widest range, from Grand Opera (twice with Auckland Opera), Shakespeare, Modern Drama, Theatre Restaurant, and Rock Opera. Alan taught Speech and Drama, and was a long-term theatre adjudicator. He wrote radio and stage plays that were all performed. In his autobiography, Alan talks about his immediate and extended family, his friends, about plays, operas, about his experiences in the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London, and at the Bristol Old Victoria Theatre School. Conscription came, and for a few years his stage career was placed on hold. The war years and its effects on everyday lives are told in rich language. After the war, entertainment became an important element in many lives, perhaps because of society's need for some glamour following the harsh years.