McClure's roar

23 May 2006

"Here is a very much alive and well survivor of the Beat Generation: he's lived that, gone on, done countless things and is still very vibrant and productive." — Kevin Ring


Beat poet Michael McClure's play, The Beard, returns to London for a three week run at the Old Red Lion Theatre, 25 July until 12 August.

Arguably the most controversial play of the 1960's and a landmark in the history of stage censorship, The Beard details an imagined meeting between two legends of America's recent past: the sultry, platinum blonde movie star, Jean Harlow; and the baby-faced, quick tempered outlaw, Billy the Kid. Set in the blue velvet of eternity, this battle of sexes leads to a final scene that is one of the most celebrated and widely discussed of the modern theatre.

McClure will be reading at the LRB on 24 July.

[Thanks Kevin]