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From under my Hat
to render them even more spicy) were a sensation. She raced through London like a Texas twister. Never had the English beheld such vitality.
Soon after Talu's arrival Cochran's top star, Sir Gerald Du Maurier, was scheduled to commence rehearsals of a new play The Dancers which needed an American girl. Cochran made up his mind to take a chance.
"Let's see what you can do with it," he said to Talu.
On opening night Tallulah got a tremendous hand; she was a hit; she was in. In those days a London success automatically meant kudos everywhere.
Du Maurier was a past master of subtle wit. The English girl in the play was excellent. Tallulah played a smallish part through three acts. But in the epilogue Talu raised the play, built on a skimpy foundation, from the subcellar and literally made it her own. Her performance, in fact, saved the play.
After the final curtain call Mrs. Cochran took me backstage and upstairs to Talu's dressing room. We found her face down amid the grease paint and powder on her dressing table, sobbing her heart out.
"Are you crazy?" I greeted her. "You should be jumping for joy. You gave the most brilliant imitation of Ethel Barrymore I've ever seen — "
Her head came up with a jerk. She stuttered, "D'you think anyone recognized it?"
"Of course not. They don't know Ethel well enough over here."
As she dried her tears Mrs. Cochran said, "Get dressed now and come down. You must meet the press and many other people." Mrs. Cochran and I went on ahead.
On the stage were Du Maurier, his English leading lady, and two thirds of the audience, as well as British critics and producers. Champagne and sandwiches were being handed out. I met the leading stars and those who came to pay respects to Mrs. Cochran. Offhand one producer offered me a part in his new play if I'd remain over.
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