kids encyclopedia robot

Christine Longford facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Quick facts for kids
Christine Longford
Christine Longford.jpg
Born
Christine Patti Trew

6 September 1900
Died 14 May 1980 (aged 79)
Dublin, Ireland
Resting place Mount Jerome Cemetery, Dublin
Nationality English
Known for Plays, books on theatre
Spouse(s) Edward Pakenham, 6th Earl of Longford
Relatives niece Rachel Billington

Christine Longford was a talented playwright and writer. She was born Christine Trew on September 6, 1900, in Somerset, England. She later became known as the Countess of Longford. Christine passed away on May 14, 1980, in Dublin, Ireland.

After her parents separated, Christine's mother took in lodgers to help support them. Christine attended Oxford Wells High School. She was a very bright student and won a special scholarship. This scholarship allowed her to study Classics at Somerville College, Oxford, a famous university.

While at Oxford, Christine met Edward Pakenham. They married in 1925. Edward later became the 6th Earl of Longford. After their marriage, Christine and Edward moved to Ireland. They spent their time living between Dublin and their family home, Pakenham Hall. Today, this home is known as Tullynally Castle in County Westmeath.

Christine Longford's Theatre Work

Christine Longford had a strong passion for theatre. In 1930, she and her husband invested in The Dublin Gate Theatre Company. This theatre was a very important part of the arts scene in Dublin.

Her Role at the Gate Theatre

Christine was very involved in the theatre's productions. She helped design the costumes for the plays. She also managed many of the productions, making sure everything ran smoothly.

Plays and Adaptations

Christine was also a playwright herself. She wrote several plays, including Lord Edward and Patrick Sarsfield. Besides writing original plays, she also adapted famous novels for the stage. One of her well-known adaptations was Jane Austen's classic novel, Pride and Prejudice. This showed her skill in bringing stories to life on stage.

Christine Longford's Books

Beyond her work in theatre, Christine Longford was also an author. She wrote several books that explored different topics.

Notable Publications

  • A Biography of Dublin: This book was part of a series that focused on the histories of different cities. It shared interesting facts about Dublin.
  • Country Places: This book was published by Parkside Press Dublin.
  • Making Conversation: This book was republished in 2009 by Persephone Books.

Christine Longford's life and work are also featured in other books. These include No Profit but the Name: the Longfords and the Gate Theatre and The Boys: a double biography. These books help us learn more about her contributions to Irish culture and theatre.

kids search engine
Christine Longford Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.