Humorous celebration of Regency romance ‘queen’

Dunedin actor Terry MacTavish. PHOTO: BRENDA HARWOOD

A RARE PUBLIC APPEARANCE BY GEORGETTE HEYER 

A large audience was treated to a delightfully witty walk down literary memory lane on Saturday at Dunedin Public Library in A Rare Public Appearance by Miss Georgette Heyer.

Researched, written and presented by Dunedin actor Terry MacTavish, in the persona of the acerbic Heyer, known as the "queen of Regency romance", the event marked the 50th anniversary of the author’s death.

Highlighting the clever, deeply researched backdrops to Heyer’s romances, her archetypal heroes and heroines and the challenges of her life, the piece was interesting, witty and at times very moving.

Providing sterling support to MacTavish in superbly re-creating some of Heyer’s most famous characters and romantic encounters were Dunedin actors Kimberley Buchan and Dylan Shield.

The pair effortlessly inhabited a huge array of types, bringing Heyer’s many heroes and heroines to life in very funny style.

All in all, an entertaining, informative and thoroughly enjoyable way to spend an afternoon.