Biography Auriol Lee

as gertrude rhead in milestones edward knoblock, circa 1913, library of congress

she remained active on broadway performer until 1930 while dividing time between america , europe appearing in mix of classical , modern plays. towards end of 1920s auriol began transition away acting producing , directing plays.

over remainder of career had close working relationship british playwright john van druten, directing broadway productions fell between 1931 , death ten years later. successful collaborations on time were, there s juliet (1932), distaff side (1935), , old acquaintance (1940/41). highlight of career came staging london production of merton hodge s wind , rain closed in 1935 after near three-year run.

auriol married british film actor frederick lloyd ten years before divorcing in 1922. around time took interest in aviation , became first woman pilot cross equator while flying on africa. once awarded prize flying 1,000 miles across mediterranean sea.