Dylan Thomas Circle Hosts Popular Events
By EIFION WILLIAMS
VANCOUVER - On March 18 the Dylan Thomas Circle presented a program at the Red Dragon in the Cambrian Hall on the relative merits of three Celtic literary figures – Robert Burns, James Joyce and Dylan Thomas.
Conceived as an idea by Circle member Ted Langley, who also served as moderator for the evening, the title chosen for the event was Sea Changes. Ted noted that the three men had much in common, most notably the fact that their individual talents went largely unrecognized by their compatriots during their lifetimes.
Each of the three presenters gave a synopsis of his chosen author’s work and significance. Albert Cox (Robert Burns), David Webb (James Joyce) and Geoff Madoc-Jones (Dylan Thomas) made their presentations with great enthusiasm to an appreciative audience.
The evening’s proceedings opened with a Dylan Thomas reading by Hilary Parizat and James Lloyd presented introductory sketches of the authors. According to Dylan Thomas Circle President Don Thomas, the evening was considered an outstanding success.
The next presentation by the Circle will be held in the Red Dragon at 7:30 pm on May 13 and is entitled Love the Words. Conceived and presented by Neville Thomas, the program will consist of a multi-media presentation of events, locations and especially readings closely associated with Dylan Thomas.
In addition to Dylan himself, recordings of his works by Richard Burton and Anthony Hopkins will also be heard. These famous voices will be amplified using a sound-surround speaker system which, together with a big screen, will fully immerse the audience in the uniquely dramatic richness of Dylan Thomas’ words.
According to Neville Thomas, at the first public performance of Under Milk Wood in New York, the assembled cast of readers were somewhat unnerved to receive the last five pages of hastily scribbled script from Dylan at the last moment. Dylan urged them to simply “love the words.” It is hoped that members will do full justice to the poet’s admonition on May 13.
Anyone interested in joining the Dylan Thomas Circle should contact Heather Davies at (604) 734-5500.
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