Director and choreographer (1895–1976) whose lavish, elaborate dance numbers defined the look of movie musicals in the 1930s and 1940s. World War II-dated TLS signed “Buzz,” two pages, 8.25 x 10.75, MGM letterhead, June 8, 1942. Letter to Pvt. Edwin A. Larkin, U.S. Army Battery C., 52nd Trn. Battalion, stationed at Camp Callan in California, in part: “I know you'll do a great job, and knowing ‘a little bit’ about the army, I know that your ability will very quickly be recognized and you will progress rapidly into higher brackets. You have a lot to be grateful for in that you are the type of chap who has had to use his mind and body in perfect coordination, linked together with that, a swell spirit of ambition to do bigger things — and you will! …We haven't previewed the picture yet. We are getting ready to score very shortly. It will probably be two or three weeks before we do finally show it to the public, and you may rest assured that either Helen or I will let you know how it went over. I start a new picture with Kathryn Grayson and Nelson Eddy in a couple of weeks. That surprises you, doesn’t it? Bunny Dull and Pop Leonard worked the thing so that I could direct the picture for them and what a relief to get away from ‘that Governing board.’’ In fine condition. During World War I, Berkeley served in the U.S. Army as a field artillery lieutenant, drilling 1,200 soldiers in complex choreography.
From the personal collection of a lifelong collector, teacher, and traveler with a passion for world history. His collecting years ranged from the 1970s to the present day, meaning that several of the premier pieces have not been on the market in decades.
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