N. C. Hunter
N. C. Hunter was a British playwright known for his contributions to theater, particularly in the mid-20th century. Born into a military family, he initially pursued a military career, serving with the Dragoon Guards before transitioning to the arts after marrying in 1933. His early work included several comedies produced during a five-year span, showcasing his talent for crafting engaging narratives. With the outbreak of World War II, Hunter returned to military service, this time with the Royal Artillery. Following the war, he resumed writing and produced a series of plays that displayed a more satirical tone while maintaining a focus on well-crafted storytelling. His works attracted notable actors of the time and enjoyed successful runs in London, although one of his most nuanced pieces, "The Excursion," did not achieve the same level of acclaim. Hunter's writing has been likened to that of Anton Chekhov for its exploration of subtle, everyday truths, reflecting a unique perspective within the theatrical landscape.
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N. C. Hunter
Playwright
- Born: September 18, 1908
- Birthplace: Derbyshire, England
- Died: April 19, 1971
Biography
N.C. Hunter was born into a military family and educated at Repton and the Royal Military College, Sandhurst, for a military career. Indeed, from 1930 to 1933, he served with the Dragoon Guards. In 1933, however, he married Germaine Marie Dachsbeck, resigned his commission, and went to work for the British Broadcasting Corporation. That year, he had written his first play, and his wish was to devote himself to literary pursuits.
For the next five years, Hunter did just that, turning out five more well-wrought, if slight, comedies. With Britain’s entry into World War II, however, he returned to military service, serving throughout the war with the Royal Artillery. Afterward, Hunter returned to writing plays, and was if anything more prolific than before. His productions, while still slight, had more or a satiric edge to them. They were all, however, well crafted and attracted some of the finest actors of the day, including Sybil Thorndike and John Gielgud. Several Hunter plays had successful runs in London, but one that did not, The Excursion, is perhaps Hunter’s best, most subtle work. Although his range was narrow, Hunter has been compared with Anton Chekhov, owing to his mastery of small, quiet truths.