Another French work. Shot in Melbourne, shown in Sydney on 10 April 1958.
It was based on a novella by Andre Gide, who I'm not that familiar with but is a major writer. A partner of film director Marc Allegret.
Based on a novella, not a play. But the play had been adapted for British TV.
Plot
The relationship between a pastor, Etiene, and his wife is affected when he brings home a blind girl Claire. He falls in love with her as does his son John.
Claire falls for Etienne, who is jealous of John.
An operation restores Claire's sight.
Cast
- Wynn Roberts as Pastor Etieene
- Maree Tomasetti as the wife
- Beryl Marshall as Claire
- John Kirkbride as John
Original novella
Published in 1919. Won the Pulitzer, apparently! An English translation is here. Gide was awarded the Noble prize in 1947.
Gide died in 1951 an obituary called him France's greatest writer.
It had been turned into a French film with Michelle Morgan in 1946.
It was an episode of Armchair Theatre in 1956.
I don't think it was filmed for the BBC.
Production
In January 1958 the ABC Weekly reported that the ABC were seeking the rights to the play.
It was recorded in Melbourne at Coppin Hall on and shown to Sydney viewers on 10 April 1958. It was produced by William Eldrige and written by George F. Kerr.
Beryl Marshall was the only member of the cast with TV experience. Wynn Roberts, who made his TV debut, would become one of the busiest actors in Melbourne TV. Maree Tomasetti was highly experienced on radio and stage. The NAA have (not online) some copies of photos from it. See here.
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| The Age 6 March 1958 p 12 |
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| ABC Weekly 9 April 1958 p 33 |
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| SMH 7 April 1958 p 5 |
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| The Age 12 March 1958 p 36 |
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| SMH 7 April 1958 p 6 |
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| The Guardian 20 Feb 1951 |
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