The Student Prince in Old Heidelberg

The Student Prince in Old Heidelberg was Ernst Lubitsch’s first Hollywood picture. He would very quickly move on to the musical comedies (many with Maurice Chevalier and Jeannette MacDonald) which were renowned for their “Lubitsch touch.” Although a silent film, The Student Prince in Old Heidelberg is very musical with its wonderful score performed by the English Chamber Orchestra.

The Student Prince, Karl Heinrich (Ramon Novarro), is sent to Heidelberg to attend the university accompanied by his tutor, Dr. Jüttner (Jean Hersholt). Wanting to live like a “normal” person for once in his life, Karl Heinrich decides to stay at a rather plebeian Gasthof, no doubt partially swayed by the presence of a vivacious barmaid, Kathi (Norma Shearer). Naturally, Karl Heinrich and Kathi fall in love and K.H. has a great time in Heidelberg. Unfortunately, his uncle (the king) falls ill and K.H., next in line for the throne, has to return home to take the reigns of government, where Karl Heinrich is torn between duty to his country and his love for Kathi.

The Student Prince in Old Heidelberg isn't available on DVD, so if you want to see it you'll have to catch it on TCM at 7:30 am CST, Tuesday, January 28.

Shrimps Worcestershire (and Vegetable Gumbo)

If you you've "liked" The Past on a Plate on facebook, you've noticed I've been testing a lot of 1920s recipes so far this year. Here's the recipe for Shrimps Worcestershire from a fantastic booklet I bought on etsy, Delightful Dinners. The shrimp are a delicious appetizer. (Or you can double the amounts for a main course.)

Shrimps Worcestershire

1 tablespoon butter
¼ teaspoon Dijon mustard
¼ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
squeeze of lemon juice
pinch of salt
pinch of paprika
8 large steamed shrimp
leaves from 1 stalk parsley, minced

Add the butter, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, salt, and paprika to a small skillet or omelet pan. Heat over medium-high heat until butter is melted and bubbling. Stir in shrimp to coat well with sauce then serve sprinkled with parsley.

Serves 2 as an appetizer or side

Adapted from Delightful Dinners.

Download and print

The aforementioned Delightful Dinners--isn't it adorable?

Photo sources:

Poster, March 1928 Photoplay

Ramon Novarro and Norma Shearer, Doctor Macro

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