The Theater: The Price of the Turtle

John van Druten’s smash comedy, The Voice of the Turtle, cost $25,000 to produce. Last week Producer Alfred de Liagre Jr. offered it to Hollywood for $3 million. This unheard-of price involved an unprecedented deal. To the buyer would go not only the coveted film rights, but the play itself—the current Broadway production, probable future productions in Chicago and London, the road, stock, amateur, radio and television rights.

Explained De Liagre: “All the movie companies were on my neck, so I went to M.G.M., 20th Century-Fox, Paramount, Warner Bros, and told them my idea. I don’t think the price is outrageous. I’m gambling just as much as they are. For all I know, Turtle may be worth $6 million.” As for Hollywood: “It has blown their hats off, but I’d say there’s a good deal of response. Right now they’re in a huddle.”