Blue plaque honour for Richard Burton and mentor in Neath Port Talbot
The campaign for the blue plaques was brought forward by the community in partnership with Neath Port Talbot council as part of a heritage strategy.Burton, who died in 1984, aged 58, starred in Hollywood blockbuster Cleopatra, and was known for his powerful performances in Dylan Thomas's Under Milk Wood and Shakespearean stage roles.The centenary celebrations will mark Burton's life and legacy. His mentor and adoptive father, Philip Burton, is also being honoured after taking in a wayward schoolboy, then named Richard Jenkins.Their relationship was recently shown in a film starring Harry Lawtey as a young Burton and Toby Jones as Philip, telling the story of the actor's formative years.It highlighted the profound influence Burton the elder had on Richard's career and success after spotting his talent for drama.
The actor's granddaughter said: "We are so excited that two blue plaques will be unveiled in honour of Philip and Richard Burton."Councillor Cen Phillips said the council was "delighted" to grant the plaques."We know that the creative spirit runs deep in Neath Port Talbot, the dramatic heart of Wales."By honouring both men, we are recognising the importance of mentors and teachers to our communities," he added.The plaques will be installed during the centenary week in November.
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Daily Mail
an hour ago
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