THE THEATRE.
THE PHOENIX.
THE programme of the Phoenix Society'for the coming season (1923-24) is a very interesting one and shows how well those who constitute the Society understand and maintain their function of making us realize, not merely by precept, but by example, what a splendid heritage we have in the Drama of the Elizabethans and of succeeding ages. The fitst play on the list is Marlowe's Edward II. It is a most important play in the genesis of that new form of Drama which Shakespeare developed with such mastery and success. It is not a very good play to read, but there are some exquisite passages, and it may show up much better on the stage than in the study. The next play is The Country Wife of Wycherley. Wycherley ought to have his chance, especially in a play which in its day was so important as The Country Wife ; but lovers of Dryden, Rowe and Otway will perhaps sigh a little that Wycherley should be given priority. The Way of the World, by Congreve. is sure to be interesting when it is performed in the scholarly and efficient way which we not only expect but always get from the Phoenix. The only item to which we make any demur is King Lear. It is always a delight to see that tremendous and heroic tragedy, but one rather feels that we ought to get out Shakespeare from the ordinary stage. However, we believe that the reason for the inclusion of Lear is that the Society has ideas about the right way to produce Shakespeare.
Meanwhile, we want to remind our readers that th( Phoenix still needs all the support which it unquestionably deserves. Inquiries and applications for membership should be addressed to the Secretary, Miss Fredman, 36 Southamptor, Street, Strand, W.C. 2. Nobody who cares for the theatre and who can afford the very moderate subscription will ever regret it. One performance like that of The Faithful Shepherdess is by itself worth a year's subscription. Those who do not know the performances of the Phoenix Society will think this the language of exaggeration. In fact, however, it is the language of soberness and truth.
J. ST. LOE STRACHEY.
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