Escadrille: An American Fable

New York: Arthur Langer Productions, Circa 1970. Draft script for an unproduced musical, circa 1970. Annotation in manuscript ink on the title page, noting copy No. 18.

From the estate of actress Monique van Vooren. Book and lyrics written by Julian Barry, screenwriter and playwright, perhaps best known for his Academy Award nominated script for Bob Fosse's 1974 film "Lenny." Music written by Claibe Richardson, whose most notable Broadway theatre score was for the briefly run 1971 musical adaptation of Truman Capote's 1951 novel "The Glass Harp," a production that has since developed a devoted cult following.

Boston University's Howard Gotlieb Archival Research Center, in their "Inventory of the Julian Barry Collection #950" records two much shorter drafts of "Escadrille," a first draft dated 7/15/66 (42 pages), and a second draft dated 12/31/66 (63 pages). In July, 1971, Arthur Langer, whose production company produced the script, attempted to form a partnership, unsuccessfully, for the purpose of producing the musical.

A young Harford student travels to France in the early days of World War I to join La Fayette Escadrille, flying fighters against the German forces.

Teal titled wrappers. Title page present, with credits for Words by: Julian Barry and Music by Claibe Richardson. 143 leaves, with last page of text numbered 2-47. Mimeograph duplication, rectos only. Pages Near Fine, wrapper Very Good, with creasing and some closed tears at extremities and an inch and half tear at spine, bound with two gold brads.

[Book #152422]