The Criterion, Durban - 1931

[tilly56]

I have recently been given a letter written by my Great-Grandmother to my grandfather. She emigrated to South Africa (This is the Elizabeth Serena Clifford on other threads!).

As a "P.S" she mentions : "I saw Will the other day. His place "the Criterion" has been let to the "Goldwyn Mayer Picture" people so they will not require a stage manager as they will not have any music hall turns, but he tells me out of all the staff who are leaving he and the manager are kept on".

"Will" is her second husband William Doland; they have obviously separated.

Now for my question (at last!) - does the Criterion (or at least the building) still exist?  And where could I find out more information about it in the early 1930s?

Many thanks for any help

Tilly

[rutti tutti]

Hi there- here is a site that talks about the criterion - perhaps you could email allan Jackson and he may be able to fill you in.
 Ruth

fad.co.za

[tilly56]

Hello Ruth

Thank you very much for the link - I've had a quick look and it looks an interesting site to find out about life in South Africa when my Great-Grandmother was there.

I've found a picture of the Criterion and I will send an e-mail to Allan Jackson as you suggest!

Many thanks

Tilly