ISSUE DATE: Jan. 31, 1949
THE BUZZ:
Composer-Lyricist Porter is a loyal patron of his own art because, after writing the songs for 22 shows and nine movies, he is still just a little stagestruck. He also combines genuine modesty about his work with an amateur’s enthusiasm for hearing it played and sung by first-rate professionals. At the opening performance of Kiss Me, Kate four weeks ago, he turned up in evening dress and settled himself happily down front in the midst of his large, glittering party. He was the picture of relaxed enjoyment, and a sight to amaze his fellow composers and authors, who generally pace, squirm and chew their nails backstage or in the lobby during a first performance. Playwright Russel Grouse once called Porter’s composure at his own first nights as “indecent as the bridegroom who has a good time at his own wedding.”
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