Submitted by
Neal Lofthouse
Three more Men to Watch !
From: Picturegoer
August 19, 1944
Some film idols are falling, some more heroically are joining up
and not an inconsiderable number are giving more than a good account
of themselves in the Forces.
We shall not forget them.
[At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, we will
remember them]
But meanwhile others have to carry on and quite a number are
getting the best chances of their screen careers.
In this article I propose to draw your attention to three actors
who, I believe, have the opportunity of coming right into the
forefront even if they are called up before the war ends. ........
[The other two "men to watch" were Vincent Price and Dane Clark]
..... And the third actor to whom I would like to present to you
is Dennis Price, who played Sergent Peter Gibbs in 'A Canterbury
Tale'.
He was born on June 23rd, 1918. Educated at Radley College and
Worcester College, Oxford, he afterwards took up a year's training for
the theatre - in spite of parental opposition - at the Embassy School
of Acting, Swiss Cottage. It's strange how often this parental ban
seems to spur on enthusiasts.
On the recommendation of Tyrone Guthrie, the famous Shakespearean
producer, Dennis got his first big break in John Gielgud's 1937 Season
at the Queen's Theatre, London. He has played in some good repertory
companies, including those at Windsor and Croydon.
Dennis enlisted in the Army in 1940 but was discharged in June
1942. Shortly afterwards he played at the London Arts Theatre Club in
"Springtime for Others," and was seen by Michael Powell.
The film director remembered him when he began to cast A
Canterbury Tale, and needed a vigorous young actor for the part of
Peter.
Dennis is well built, over six feet in height, has brown hair and
grey eyes. He combines that with a striking individuality and acting
ability.
His last stage work before beginning this, his first film, was
with Noel Coward in his tour of the provences. Back on the stage now
Dennis played Horatio in Tyrone Guthrie's London production of
"Hamlet." These parts, together with his tough sergeant in A
Canterbury Tale, show his versatility. Latest production - 'A Place
of One's Own'.
Wilson D'Arne
