From the Archives: Coward lauds ‘Cavalcade’

“Cavalcade,� at Grauman’s Chinese Theater, marks an usual instance of a famous playwright commending the Hollywood treatment of his brainchild.

When Fox Films purchased the Noel Coward masterpiece, it was generally agreed that the undertaking was of too vast proportions to properly transfer to the talking screen. Everyone agreed too that the final result would necessarily have to be flawless to please Noel Coward.

As ample evidence of the fidelity of the picturization to the original, the following telegram has been received by Winfield Sheehan, Fox production head:

“I have just seen ‘Cavalcade’ and I am deeply in your debt. I can sincerely say that the picture exceeded my greatest hopes. The whole story has been directed, adapted and played with such sensitive adherence to the text and spirit of my play, that I am doubly thrilled at the response of both press and public to your brilliant achievement.�

“Please accept my heartfelt thanks and congratulation.�

[Signed]

“NOEL COWARD.�