Robert Helpmann: A Servant of Art

by Anna Bemrose, Maina Gielgud AO (Foreword by)

Magnificently illustrated, this fascinating account chronicles the life of the Australian phenomenon Sir Robert Helpmann. From his involvement in multiple genres—ballet, opera, stage, and film—to his multifaceted roles as a dancer, choreographer, actor, director, and producer, this biography describes Helpmann's prominent presence in the performing arts scene in London and New York City from the 1930s to the 1950s. Detailing his roles with leading performers such as Katherine Hepburn, Vivien Leigh, and Laurence Olivier, this study will certainly delight lovers of the performing arts.

400 pages, Hardcover

First published September 1, 2009

Reviews

[Rosemary Atwell · Rating 2 out of 5]

Although there’s plenty to like here, Anna Bemrose’s somewhat hagiographic examination of Helpmann’s considerable contribution to Australian culture leaves the reader slightly underwhelmed.
It’s well researched and presented, but the overtly academic style feels stilted and unsuited to the freshness and creativity of dance and theatrical production. Unlike, for example, Jennifer Homan’s ‘Apollo’s Angels,’ there’s no real representation of Helpmann’s oeuvre from an insider point-of-view and that integral spark of the artist’s genius remains distant throughout. Moreover, Helpmann as a flesh-and-blood personality is never allowed to escape other than to illuminate his ongoing struggles with administrative boards - his private life is completely absent throughout the book and the somewhat deflating subtitle of Helpmann as ‘ a servant of art’ offers little clue to his overall creativity and influence as performer, choreographer and mentor.
A missed opportunity.

[Jessica · Rating 3 out of 5]

As with most biographies, too much information trying to be crammed into one book.
An extra star given for the photographs.