HIstorical novel for children ABOUT HOW THE STRATFORD SKAKESPEARE FESTIVAL BEGAN. iT IS TOLD FROM THE POINT OF VIEW OF A GIRL OF ABOUT 10 YRS OLD. Someone (TOM PATTERSON, I THINK) who was key in the beginning of this annual event was a boarder in her home, and she is very excited about the events
I think you want Pegeen and the Pilgrim.
“Pegeen and the Pilgrim” by Lyn Cook
This may be ‘Pegeen and the Pilgrim’ by Lyn Cook, illustrated by Pat and Bill Wheeler (1957). “Thousands of people have been thrilled by the Stratford Festival, but for Pegeen O’Hara it opened up a new and enchanting world. Pegeen lives in Stratford; she is twelve years old and dreams of becoming an actress. She even hopes that she will be chosen to play a boy’s part. As the Festival plans develop and grow so does Pegeen, learning a great deal on the way about Shakespeare, about the great art of theatre, and, incidentally, about modesty and grace. Among those who come to Stratford for the Festival is Edward Brimblecombe, known as Mr. B. He comes from Stranford, England, and seems to Pegeen to be a romantic pilgrim making a very special pilgrimage . He becomes her friend and benefactor, encouraging and helping as she reads the plays and tries to understand them. But as she learns about Shakespeare she also learns to appreciate the people about her: a household of boarders and he r own young friends.”
I’m fairly sure you’re looking for Pegeen and the Pilgrim by Lyn Cook, first published in 1957, but reissued a few times since then, the most recent in 2002, so it’s fairly easy to get hold of.
Yes, I’ve got myself a copy of it, and it is definitely Pegeen and the Pilgrim! Many thanks as a I’ve wanted to share this with my teenage daughter who is quickly becoming a fan of the Stratford Festival.