WHAT’S ON? Is your production or event shown here...? If you want an item to be included here or on our website then please send details to: What’s On, The Noël Coward Society, 29, Waldemar Avenue, Hellesdon, Norwich, NR6 6TB or email: whatson@noël coward.net Tel: +44 (0)1603 486188 Fax: +44 (0)1603 400683 Professional companies and individuals are shown in blue * denotes Premiere, TBC = To be confirmed In North America Hay Fever: WEST END HIGHLIGHT - BLITHE SPIRIT 31 Mar to 10 Apr -Seminole Community College Fine Arts Featuring Penelope Keith, Joanna Riding, Amanda Drew WHAT’S IN Theatre, Sanford, Florida and Aden Gillett - Director: Thea Sharrock THE PIPELINE? From the 16th November 2004 to 28th May 2005. I LIKE AMERICA... Fallen Angels Monday to Saturday 7.30 pm. Apr to Nov - (in repertory) Stratford Festival Theatre - Thursday and Sat Matinee 2.30 pm. COWARD Blithe Spirit and Broadway Bliss Stratford, Ontario - Canada Ticket price from £15 to £40 ONFILM Two exciting NCS events took place in New York just off Fifth Avenue so afterwards we strolled in December, 2004 arranged by Ken Starrett, the along, window gazing and, venturing into For more information or to make a booking at The Savoy With thanks to all those Society’s North American Director. On Saturday Bergdorf Private Lives Theatre please telephone the box office 0870 1648787 who have expressed 4th, NCS UK visitors were welcomed at the Goodman, 12 to 15 May Stage 43 Theatrical Soc. Port Coquitlam BC18 to interest in this event. Blithe Spirit Museum of Television and Radio by Richard bumped 17 Sep Vision Theatre, Nepean, Ontario A change of date and 9 to 12 Feb - Sefton theatre Company, The Little Theatre, Holbrook. Ken introduced a screening of the 1956 immediately news on the film to be Southport, Merseyside telecast recording of Blithe Spirit, with Noël as into Elaine Hay Fever shown on Page11. Feb 10,11,12,17.18, 19 at 8pm and Feb 20 at 2pm. Charles Condomine, Claudette Colbert as Ruth and Stritch in the Private Lives Lauren Bacall as Elvira. Originally broadcast live, handbag Shakespeare '70 Inc. at the College of New Jersey, Ewing, N.J., COWARD in For tickets and directions call 609 882 5979 Summer 2005 (TBC) - Dublin Gate then Irish Tour Lauren Bacall and Humphrey Bogart had kept a department, Website: www.shakespeare70.org 13 to 18 Jun - The Pump House Theatre Company, The Pump teddington private copy, which Miss Bacall had donated to the looking in House Theatre, Watford, Herts Can you help with a museum. This was a wonderful treat and a first the pink and Blithe Spirit major exhibition at the bright as a 14 to 24 Apr Buckhorn Community Centre, Buckhorn, Ontario This Happy Breed Orleans House button. She 16 to 19 Feb - Marlborough Dramatic Club, Brentwood Twickenham? was In Europe Theatre, Brentwood See Page 11 interested to hear about the flower- Nothing known at present 7 to 12 Mar 2005 The Hamble Players, The Memorial Hall, laying at the Gershwin Theatre the Hamble, Southampton COWARD in following day, having performed In the United Kingdom the same ceremony for us at Drury Red Peppers paris Lane, in December 2002. The major Postponed - The Matrix Theatre, Newbury, Berks We are planning a two event was on Sunday 5th at the ATalent To Amuse day trip to Paris in early 11 Feb at 8pm. As part of their St Valentine's Day celebrations, Gershwin Theatre, just off Noel Coward Society’s ‘Laughter Lister and Love’ September to visit Broadway in the Hall of Fame, the Clarendon Hotel, Montpelier Vale, Blackheath, London, Coward’s wartime SE3 are presenting a tribute to Noël Coward. This one-man Saturday May 7th, 2005 at 2.30pm - A Noël Coward Cabaret where there is an identical statue of at the Noël Coward Studio Theatre at the Hampton Hill residence and much Noël to the one in the foyer at show is performed and devised by local Actor/Singer, James more... see page 11 Hay with Anne Clements at the Piano. Playhouse. email: [email protected] or Keir Dullea above laying flowers on ‘Noël’ & here with Ken Starrett Drury Lane. Keir Dullea, who A three course dinner compliments the show post to:3 Somerville Road, Poulner, RINGWOOD, Hants appeared with Noël in the film Details from the Clarendon Hotel on 020 8318 4321 BH24 1XJ COWARD opportunity for anyone from the UK to see the Bunny Lake is Missing performed the flower- birthday performances. Marvellous close-up shots of Noël laying ceremony and was accompanied by his Relative Values Noel Coward Society’s ‘Coward In Paris’ celebrations displaying his vast and quite intriguing range of wife, Mia Dillon. Keir told the story of being 27 Jan to 19 Feb - Salisbury Playhouse Details to follow. The review of last facial expressions. He edited this introduced to Noël, who had greeted him with Noel Coward Society’s ‘Coward On Film’ year’s Coward birthday version for TV and it worked superbly. Just One of Those Things Details to follow. celebrations is Apparently Noël and Miss Colbert’s relationship had been frosty during 1 to 5 Mar - A Celebration of the Words and Music of Noël Footnote underway with planning Coward and Cole Porter presented By Denmead Operatic for next year’s events in rehearsals, but being the professionals Noël Coward, January 3, 1968 they were, that certain frostiness was Society The weather has been entirely satisfactory - a lot of snow New York and London. 1 Mar - War Memorial Hall, Hambledon Road, Denmead We hope to make more incorporated into the portrayals. The and sleds and jingle-bells. I feel a little curious about being Museum’s theatre was packed with 2 Mar - Merchistoun Hall, London Road, Horndean only two years off 70! My health is all right and my heart is of the celebrity flower- 4 Mar - Purbrook Methodist Church Hall, Stakes Road, laying at the Theatre members of NCS from New York and pure, which I put down to excessive smoking. However, a afterwards we chatted over tea and Purbrook reckoning will probably come. It usually does. I read in one Royal next year as well 5 Mar - Bedhampton Social Hall, Bedhampton Road, as enjoying another cakes; just the right British touch. It of my journals of a few years ago a triumphant account of was a pleasure to meet Elizabeth Bedhampton giving up smoking for ever; after a few weeks I decided I Annual Lunch. Details Full details at: www.hants.gov.uk/denmeadoperatic coming soon. Sharland, whose book A Theatrical could bear it no longer so back I went to the darling weed Feast in New York was featured in the Tickets - £6 (full) and £5 (concessions) and have felt splendid ever since. I may, of course, shorten Tickets Tel: (023) 9226 9260or (023) 9248 0654 (AM only) laughter. October Home Chat and the UK guests my life by a year or two, but I haven't got all that longer to were delighted to see Steve Ross again, go anyhow and I couldn't care less. It's been a nice and lister & love Ken Starrett, ‘Noël’ and Barbara Longford Hay Fever since his triumph in Cocktails and profitable buggy ride and I've enjoyed most of it very much. Look on Page11 for 25 Feb to 5 Mar - Heald Green theatre Co Ltd., Heald Green Laughter….. for NCS, at Pizza on-the-Park. (The “Keir Dullea, gone tomorrow….” which, The loss of a few years of gnarled old age does not oppress details. Theatre, Heald Green, Cheshire photographs of this event were taken by New York happily, had not been prophetic. There was an me. member Richard Barclay.) The Museum is situated impressive turn out of New York members. Page 12 Unless stated otherwise all text and images are copyright to the Noël Coward Estate. All correspondence to: Home Chat, The Noël Coward Society, 29, Waldemar Avenue, Hellesdon, Norwich, NR6 6TB UK email: homechat @noelcoward.net Ken spoke knowledgeably about Noël opening. This is Noël’s musical version his operettas Bitter Sweet (1929) and and about the Society and presented Keir of Lady Windermere’s Fan. On Monday Conversation Piece (1934) and he Dullea with a framed publicity poster of 6th we were allowed to watch the final thought that Wilde’s play would be LAUGHTER, LISTER and LOVE Bunny Lake... After the ceremony, we dress rehearsal of the show at the Irish perfect material. “It really is up my A Noël Coward Cabaret walked a short distance to Rosie Repertory Theatre in West 22nd Street. musical alley”, he confided to his diary in at the Noël Coward Studio Theatre at the Hampton Hill Playhouse O’Grady’s restaurant for July 1953 and later added, Saturday May 7th, 2005 at 2.30pm lunch in an elegant oak- “The music is pouring out Champagne Reception - The Songs of The Master - Tea and cakes panelled private room, and I can scarce get to the Dedication of Moira Lister’s Molyneux gown worn in the 1947 West End revival of Present Laughter with piano. Lots of time piano without a melody This jewel of a theatre has to be seen to A totally unique feature, generously the dress in which she says; to chat over cocktails creeping from my fingers, be believed! funded by our patron Graham Payn. “I donate it to this theatre in admiration prior to lunch – well, usually in keys that I am Teddington Theatre Club has a long Moira Lister, who starred in the first run for its great work in keeping our beloved drinks if you prefer, but not used to and can’t play history of award-winning productions of Present Laughter in 1949, attended the theatre alive” this is the Noël Coward in; it is most extraordinary and acquired its new premises at theatre’s June production in 2004. She Tickets £6 per person. Society. The UK group and never ceases to amaze Hampton Hill in 1998. This, after much was so enchanted with the results that was delighted to meet me.” Unfortunately, due to endeavour on the part of one particular she has donated the gown she wore for Credit Card or Cheques payable to: Geoffrey Johnson and the difficulties which person, Eric Yardley. His vision and almost a 1000 performances, to the The Noël Coward Society cabaret singer, Gregory Dominic described in his efforts in fund-raising secured the Hampton Hill Playhouse. An elegant Guests would be most welcome. Moore, for the first time article, a third of the score company a lottery grant to complete the rival to the dress worn by Gertrude and it was good to renew had to be sacrificed before building process. Lawrence in Private Lives. Contact the Membership Secretary by acquaintances with Lynne the show reached the One of the leading amateur theatre So do join us for the Champagne email if preferred on: and Barry Day, Steve Globe Theatre on 10th companies in the South East, it had the reception, followed by the Cabaret of [email protected] or UK Society members with Ken Starrett (centre) attending Blithe Spirit Ross and many devoted June, 1954, but for this foresight to include in its plans The Noël Noël’s songs, performed jointly by post to: Coward aficionados. Keir and Mia are a After the Ball has an interesting history. production, the libretto returns to what Coward Suite, comprising a bar and members of The Teddington Theatre 3 Somerville Road, Poulner, delightful couple and Keir told me that Dominic Vlasto described the difficulties Barry was able to discover of the original lounge area together with a 50 seater Club together with Noël Coward Society RINGWOOD, Hants BH24 1XJ his father had been at the London School surrounding the original production, in his Coward “book” and score and the cut studio theatre. members. Moira has sent a scroll with Further travel details if required. of Economics and named songs have almost all been him after Keir Hardie. recreated and restored by Keir suggested that we John McGlinn. It is might have a future directed and designed by Coward in Teddington and on film Coward event on a cruise Tony Walton, who, as a There is to be a major exhibition in the south east by road, rail, or even by A big thank you to all those who ship, so watch this space. teenage art student in Orleans House Gallery, Twickenham boat. Orleans House has a rich and expressed an interest in our Film event. Ken presented all the London returned to the from July to October. The focus is to be vibrant history, the baroque Octagon We now know that Barry Day’s book is guests with a unique 2005 original production many on Musicians in the area from the past room was designed by renowned due out in March so we have decided to Coward calendar. times, as he says, “partly 500 years. Any of our members who architect James Gibbs, but the full postpone the date to coincide with the After lunch we were out of increasing affection have anecdotes or memories of Noël potential of the site has yet to be realised. release of the book in the UK. We hope entertained to a cabaret. for the score and partly Coward are asked to send in their In the first instance contact Celia the event will take place on a Sunday Steve Ross accompanied due to my delighted contributions. The Noël Coward Society Cologne, our membership Secretary with afternoon in a rather splendid venue in Gregory Moore, who sang bewilderment at the would also like to include your your items. London - The British Film Institute have Alice is at it Again with stylised staging. This was contributions in Home Chat issues. Visit their website at: obtained a copy of The Scoundrel Noël’s new words; the missing by Robert Helpman, who, Please believe us, nothing is too small to www.richmond.gov.uk/depts/opps/eal/leis 1935 film in which he plays a ruthless, verse being included. Barbara Longford, Geoffrey Johnson and Lisa Foster presumably inspired by be considered! We should be thrilled ure/arts/orleanshouse/default.htm cynical, hated publisher who is killed in a Gregory resembles the his background in with that special view of the past that Celia Cologne plane crash, his ghost must wander young Coward and perhaps he will article Mary Ellis – The Missing Bit of the classical ballet – had directed Coward’s you can offer. Also, song sheets of the restlessly unless someone sheds a tear for entertain us at a future event. They then Obits in the August 2003 edition of this operetta on the principle of ‘every little 20’s 30’s and other small memorabilia paris, toujours paris him. This Paramount film by Hecht and sang a duet of Matelot, which was very magazine. Written in the early 1950’s, meaning has a movement of its own’ ”. would be appreciated. Everything would McArthur remains a cult classic and poignant. This was followed by Paula Noël was anxious to repeat the success of Graham Payn, who played Mr Hopper in be fully insured by the Museum and ‘The RUE DE LA PAIX is under our sway’ shows Noël Coward in one of his most Laurence, who performed Nina the original production, recalls returned to you afterwards. interesting film roles. As his character with great panache. Paula also that everyone was “bobbing and This prestigious heritage house is owned A two-day trip to Paris in early Anthony Mallare says: “I'm never nice.” told a few racy stories, including weaving around the stage like by Richmond Borough Council and is September to visit Coward’s wartime a view confirmed by one of his victims the one where Cary Grant puppets on a string.” Graham visited by 40,000 vistors annually. residence and of course, obligatory stops Cora Moore who says, upon reading introduced Noël at an Oscar continues:- “at least we were until Stroll along a peaceful riverside road into nearby at the Ritz, Café de la Paix, La about Mallare's plane crash, “I've just ceremony and Noël’s delicious Noël turned up for his first secluded woodland gardens, to find Coupole (haunt of writers and artists), learned that there IS a God!” comment relating to Cary’s not rehearsal and saw what was going stunning 18th century interior design and possibly throw in a trip on a Bateau This is true film noir with acting cameos inconsiderable sex appeal and “be on. Bobbie was breaking the principle art gallery for the Borough Mouche, and suggested hotels to book. for most of the New York theatre elite of tender with me…. it’s my first Coward’s First Law of Theatre – of Richmond-upon-Thames, which Our guide will be our member in Paris, the time including the critic Alexander Oscar”. Cathy Gale sang give the words their value. But attracts over 40,000 visitors a year. Helene Catsiapis who is liasing with Woolcott making a rare showing. The beautifully When My Ship Comes seeing that the nostrils of our Visitors of all ages can try out their own Celia our Membership Secretary. Full other starring role is taken by Julie Home and everyone joined Steve highly strung director were artistic talents in a pre-booked workshop details will be in the April issue of Home Haydon as Cora Moore with fellow actors for a finale of I’ll See You Again. positively flaring, he decided on at Orleans House, or to soak up more Chat but if you cannot wait till then, Hope Williams, Helen Strickland, Everley Barry Day had told us that whilst humour, rather than vitriol. history, Marble Hill Park and Ham House contact Celia on: 01425 478760 or Gregg and Stamley Ridges even the we were in Manhattan, his edited ‘That shouldn’t be called After are nearby. Finish off with great pub email to: [email protected] or uncredited fortune teller Madame version of After the Ball would be Steve Ross with Paula Laurence the Ball at all, he said, “it should grub around the corner from the Gallery, write to:3 Somerville Road, Ringwood, Shushkina! More news to follow soon! which is reached easily from London and Hants BH24 1XJ Page 2 Page 11 be called St. Vitus’ Dance!”. the square is referred to in Coward’s And yes, I did get into a yellow cab and ... a personal diary of all things Coward from the Editor It was a great joy and privilege to see, diaries. Prior to the Blithe Spirit say “take me to 21” just like Tony Curtis Conversation Pieces this witty, romantic and virtually screening, Yvonne and Richard Thomas in The Sweet Smell of Success. Our Well what an amazing pre-Christmas excessively dotty or eccentric leads to a didn’t miss it - even if I did spill a glass unknown work and to hear such beautiful and Lisa Foster joined us for a private native New Yorker, Ken, was amazed rush of Coward activity! The year went direct comparison with her defining of red wine all over the bar before the music. The production has been a big tour backstage at Radio City Music Hall, that the driver knew the address, but he out with a real bang with members flying interpretation of the role. Anything less show! success with excellent reviews in the which has been in use continually as a certainly did! back and forth across the Atlantic tasting can look rather wan. In most of the The sale of books and recordings from the New York Times, News and the New grand showbiz venue, since its opening We stayed at The Algonquin Hotel the Coward Birthday celebrations on productions I have seen the actor choose old Coward London office has raised Yorker, so far. Ken Starrett organised a night in December, 1932. The venue because Noël had often stayed there and both side of the pond! I didn’t make the a variation on ‘aging hippy’ meets about £1,000 so far for the Society. There NCS visit to the production in mid underwent a $70 million, seven-month it has been allowed to retain its period New York celebrations but the birthday ‘fortune-teller’ - keeping the eccentricity are many more titles yet to be featured in January, 2005. Would any fringe theatre restoration project in 1997 and has been (1902) glamour and style. After the First events in London were amongst the best well under control. Penelope Keith our future catalogue so I hope we shall be producers/directors in the UK returned to the opulence and glamour of World War, Vanity Fair writers, Dorothy I can recall. A personal pleasure was clearly espouses the same view and raising more through sales during the (Chichester Festival Theatre?) please its Art Deco beginnings. Ken presented Parker, Robert Benchley and Robert E. sitting with Lord and Lady Attenborough produces as intelligent a version of this year. We are planning to sell the books in take note. Quite apart from the main the UK visitors with a commemorative Sherwood began lunching there, leading over lunch and listening about the start model as I have ever seen. The snag is the current catalogue via the Advance Society events, Ken also arranged a first edition booklet, published after the to a daily exchange of ideas, opinions of his career and his love of directing. In that it is not always so wildly funny! In a Book Exchange (ABE) from February series of tours and walks which made the restoration, which contained a and often savage wit. Alexander the last few years he has spent some sense this is no bad thing as the play is onwards. Much sorting of books in the trip to New York unforgettable. photograph our incredibly debonair hero, Woollcott, George S. Kaufman and considerable time working with a group not about her and too dominant an loft at Waldemar Avenue and adjustments Knowing the history of so many of the with Anna Neagle and Leslie Howard, Heywood Broun were also part of the that is trying to establish film studios in interpretation could unbalance the play. to shelving in the office need to take place theatres on and around Broadway and visiting Radio City in November, 1938 group and by the early 1920’s society Wales. This commitment and concern for Joanna Riding’s Ruth, was the best before much more can happen here! loving the business as he does, Ken is the for the American premiere of Sixty columns were referring to them as the others is quite amazing. He told a lovely performance I have ever seen of this I have been continuing to place the Noël very best of guides. We saw the Bellasco Glorious Years, starring Dame Anna as Algonquin Round Table, although they story of the shooting of the final scene of difficult part. In the past I have walked Coward Music Index on the website with Theatre, where Noël gave his last New Queen Victoria. Yvonne and Richard also called themselves the Vicious Circle. his first film as a director, Oh What A away feeling slightly sorry for the actor the hope that at the very least an Adobe York performance in Nude with Violin, joined us on 6th December for a guided In December 2005, the Algonquin Hotel, Lovely War. The final scene required the who has had to suffer this role but not pdf version of the Index will be available the Henry Miller Theatre (now with its tour of the New Amsterdam Theatre, in conjunction with NCS, will officially siting of thousands of white crosses on a here - she gave it new life and a vitality soon. For those who do not ‘do’ façade only remaining). We went to the which opened on 42nd Street in 1903 and open its Noël Coward Suite with hillside in Brighton so that the camera and assertiveness that made the battle computers this I am afraid will mean very Dr. Round’s theatrical digs, where Noël was home to the Ziegfeld Follies from accompanying ‘pomp and circumstance’. could pan back revealing the this stark with Elvira far more even-handed. If little. All of this work has taken much had stayed with the Lunts in 1921, the 1913 – 27. In 1997 it was restored to its The Society is hoping to arrange another reminder of all the losses that were Ruth is meant to be the ‘ice queen’ then more time than I first thought. apartment block on 67th Street, (home of unique original ‘art nouveau’ glory. visit to New York for UK members to suffered. Some 16,000 crosses were Elvira is supposed to be the spectral On the personal front I have been the famous Café Des Artistes restaurant) Another highlight of the trip. events surrounding the opening as well involved and he asked the relevant film Salome that warms and ‘stirs the loins’ - collecting French Acting Editions of where he stayed and we visited Of course, we lunched at the legendary as for the annual flower-laying ceremony. staff to get the scene ready for shooting a with Amanda Drew’s Elvira, my loins Noël’s plays and just acquired 1st editions Washington Square, scene of the Sardi’s Restaurant, which opened in As in Noël ‘s song (Ace of Clubs, 1949) week later. On the day of the shoot all sadly remained entirely unstirred. Aden of I’ll Leave It To You and The Young anecdote when Noël was espied by a 1927, and searched in vain among the – “And come what may, I shall return went well and the serried ranks of white Gillett as Charles Condomine never quite Idea. These early editions are becoming policeman, whilst cooking in a state of caricatures for Noël’s. Apparently he did one day, to the good old USA” We do crosses were duly revealed. It was only convinced that he really knew or cared more difficult to find. The advent of ebay undress. After much research, Ken is pose for one. Perhaps a reader might hope that you will join us. later when he asked those involved about either woman - but his was and other auction websites gives us an fairly certain which particular house in supply more information about that? Barbara Longford whether the siting of all the crosses went certainly a lively playing of the role. opportunity to cull the occasional rare well that he learnt that the hill was solid Some of the ‘business’ practised by the find but I suspect on occasion that three lord attenborough kneels to the master chalk and every cross had needed a hole maid raised loud laughter and everyone of four of us may be fighting amongst Just a week after the celebrations in New and waited with the small crowd bored into it before it could be sited! He in the house was clearly having a good ourselves for these literary prizes. Like Attenborough, with Sheridan Morley and York UK members had returned from the queueing for tickets to see said he felt awful! It was tragic to learn time! As always Coward’s writing wins everything else once a market place Michael Imison who laid flowers on the Big Apple to join of his family’s losses in the Asian through and there was nothing on that becomes commonplace it is more difficult statue in the foyer of the other members Tsunami only a few weeks later. Our lovely afternoon that created anything to have that lucky find, as sellers begin to theatre that saw from the UK and hearts go out to them. other than enjoyment. Later on the same realise the true value of their items. Coward’s patriotic Europe to celebrate The following week I came down to day I joined NCS members for the Ironically sometimes quite rare Coward triumph Cavalcade. The Master’s London for a few days to see Blithe Coward Birthday event at The Jermyn items create little interest and fetch little Lord Attenborough birthday in London. Spirit at The Savoy Theatre, see KT Street Theatre. After an enjoyable meal at yet videos of In Which We Serve or The echoed the photograph The Birthday Sullivan and watch my nephew appear in Getti’s Italian restaurant next door we Italian Job always appear to create taken at the naming of celebrations started a play at the Pleasance Theatre, listened to a wonderful evening of interest and a price! We start 2005 with a the Coward Bar at the at the Theatre Islington. I had never been to The Savoy Coward performed by KT Sullivan and determination to continue the growth and Phoenix theatre of Noel Museum, moved on Theatre before so I was pleasantly friends. After the show, over a glass or development of the society and offer as to the Theatre surprised at the size and design of the two, I met so many people who had much as we can across the world. Early Royal, Drury Lane auditorium and the impressive Coward connections - and we collected planning shows that Ken Starrett and the and ended proscenium. The matinee crowd some new members! My personal thanks UK committee have some interesting sumptuously at sauntered in and I listened with interest to Geoffrey Skinner for this wonderful ventures for the next twelve months. For Rules restaurant. to the comments of expectation. The play event! On the following day I caught my me the real highlights will be to watch The Society’s AGM was, as usual, a highly enjoyable nephew in La Trattoiria De Segretti and The Scoundrel on the large screen for the in Covent Garden experience - it is the most popular play loved it (no bias here then!) This 13- first time and to see the Wally Stott/Harry gave members an that Coward wrote (and his personal hander ensemble piece was a joy from Noble album released. These are both opportunity to favourite) and must have been performed start to finish - one hour ten minutes of unique Coward performances and worthy express their views by most amateur companies in the UK. young men acting their socks off, and of as many revivals as we can give them. Lord Attenborough and Noël now and then... about the past year Margaret Rutherford’s stage and film playing dozens of instruments - giving a My last wish for 2005 is that we shall see and suggest events and activities for The Producers. Other members interpretation of the Madame Arcati role dark comedic take on the contents of the another successful Coward production in 2005. After coffee everyone made their joined the throng as the foyer crowd has always created a problem for those ‘special’ at the Italian Trattoria. First seen the West End - and rumour has it that one way to the Theatre Royal at Drury Lane welcomed Lord and Lady reviving the part. To do anything at the Edinburgh Festival I am glad I could be on the cards! John Knowles Page 10 Page 3 and himself when he knelt down beside attracted almost as much the Master’s statue and recalled his attention as the door that signature ‘finger-wagging’ gesture that allowed the Prince of news and letters ... often accompanied Coward-ly advice! In Wales’ (later, Edward VII) a short speeech he recalled his affection to wine and dine the claim your a letter from for Noël and his luck in being singled beautiful actress Lillie jennie grant in out as a student to join the team of actors Langtry here. Their signed discount on appearing in In Which We Serve. Michael portraits still hang on the new zealand Imison and Sheridan Morley laid flowers walls. The couple visited so coward on Celia Cologne received the following from the Coward Estate and Sheridan often that a private entrance film letter from Jennie who many of us met recited a Coward verse and recalled was made for them. Their when the Society really got underway in anecdotes about The Master. The scene table near the latticed Scarecrow Press is offering an exclusive 2001. She worked with Joan Hirst, Noël’s then moved to Rules restaurant where in window in the velvet- 20% discount on the published price of last secretary prior to Joan’s retirement to festively decorated dining rooms swagged first floor room this book to international Noël Coward Denville Hall. members gathered for drinks and lunch. became the most celebrated Society members. When in London between 1998 - 2002 I ‘table for two’ in London. Claim your discount on the 208 page had the position in the Cardogen Square Everyone at the lunch book (normal price £31.00) by ordering office of helping and making sure books appreciated the warmth and from NBN International by telephoning and scripts with press cuttings as far back generosity of Lord +44 (0) 1752 202 301 and quoting: when Noël’s first secretary Lorne Attenborough and his wife scpcoward05 Lorraine pasted them into the old fashion Sheila who gave Press Cutting Books. Joan Hirst had them autographs and talked to in Coley's flat there and with The Girl everyone who came to meet A Reminiscence by Betty Davies That Came to Supper's full orchestra them and ask questions. His score and script in pencil by the master short talk followed lunch I started writing in the early fifties. I was musical and - well we've been a bit which I found in the attic when I did an Edward VII and Lillie Langtry and gave more examples of working for the BBC (though not at that cheeky and written one based on your inventory. At the time dear Joan had just Rules is a quite magical environment in the kindness and time, in a programme department) so any idea. Will you forgive us and have lunch commenced her stay at Denville Hall, one which to eat. The restaurant was thoughtfulness of Noël to ideas I had emerged as radio plays. One to talk about it?” of my little duties was to clear mail at the established by Thomas Rule in 1798. Its those who worked with such was a ghost story called The Come Act Three. Square and catch the tube and buses to go small wood-panelled private dining him. He recalled working Back, a fantasy about the ghost of a court Cue the re-entry of Cloud Nine! Graham through the mail with her and deal with rooms are covered with photographs and on In Which We Serve with Lady Attenborough and members at Rules jester who had been a celebrity during and Leslie asked me to come to The accounts that needed to be paid. drawings of the rich and famous who its dreadful tank of filthy, Out thanks to all those who came and his lifetime but had never recovered from Studio, read their script, hear their songs Now for a little information on the have dined there. Our own contribution oily water in which most of the scenes made this occasion such a special one. the shock of finding that he had left no and, if I liked them, give the project my "Kiwi" member: I helped Michael Imison to this gallery - The Master himself - were shot of the survivors of the sinking Thanks to Lori Winch-Johnson, Barbara footprints on the sands of time and that blessing. I did like them. Noël himself and the staff member from Birmingham of the Torrin floating around Longford for the photographs and to the twenty years after his death nobody had was away in the Caribbean but he'd read University pack the many books and a life-raft. Sheridan Morley staff of Rules for producing such a heard of him. He moped around the the script - based on my idea I told myself records that now are safe in their vaults. shared some further stories pleasant lunch. To the Theatre Museum afterlife making a bit of a nuisance of dizzily - and it had his comments in the Also the many books that the society are about Noël and after a vote for their generous support of the Society himself till eventually the authorities margin. Remember I was just starting and selling plus the many records, Cds and of thanks from Robert in providing the premises for our AGM relented and agreed to give him his body was still, frankly, a little wet behind the other small items had been in my tender Gardiner and the and to the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane back so that he could return to life and ears! It was all incredibly sophisticated care at the Square. Prior to closure of the presentation of gifts to our who suffer our interruptions to their have another go at fame. and exciting! Alas their project too Square, I had the wonderful experience of guests they left. ticket queues each year with good grace. Cut to the present day and a highly flapped its wings a little but then folded helping in my small way with the Tragically only a successful come back! (I'd better make it them quietly and stole into the nest to join wonderful statues that now grace Firefly, few weeks later clear here that all this preceded by a The Come Back. The musical that never New York and Theatre Royal and we used - after such a couple of years the Danny Kaye film The was joined the film that never was. They'd as our Society logo. I remember the first happy occasion Court Jester and the song The Ghost of called it Ghost of a Chance and Leslie meetings of the Society and how some we were to hear an old King's Jester. Neither of these Cole mentions it in his biography of people were unsure if it would be just a of the sad loss of were, so far as I know, even a twinkle in Coward. However looking back now the ‘nine day wonder’ and be put into the too members of the anyone's eye when I wrote The Come main thing I remember about those days hard basket. It gives me great joy to see Attenborough Back) Anyway it never materialised as a was the sheer excitement of sitting in That how the membership has grown and how family in the radio play because a friend took it to Studio sipping champagne and listening to both sides of the Atlantic have responded Asian Tsunami Gainsborough and they bought it. Plans their songs. It was my initiation into the to preserve the memory of a Master of disaster. Our went ahead - conferences, auditions etc. world of Show Business and I do think it many arts . When you next speak to thoughts and Ken Annakin was to direct it. But had Style! Robert Gardiner please tell him he is still condolences go eventually it was dropped along with bunny lake is found in my thoughts and High Wycombe still to a man and his several other projects and I came off Good news for Coward DVD seekers and can bring a happy memory. To all the family who have Cloud Nine. very apposite given Keir Dullea’s guest wonderful people I had the joy of meeting contributed so Act Two. appearance at the birthday celebrations in and working with Michael Imison, Alan much to our Graham Payn, whom I'd never met, rang New York. Bunny Lake Is Missing has Brodie, Caroline Underwood from national culture me up. He'd read the script - I think he'd been released in the US on a Region 1 Chappells - trust she has forgiven me for and richness of been a prospective lead - and liked it. DVD (but can be played on multiregional the dusty experience in Joan's attic and life. Lori Winch-Johnson, Caroline Sawers and He said, very charmingly, “Leslie Cole DVD players anywhere in the world!) many more people. Jennie Grant Lord & Lady Attenborough and Sheridan Morley Sheridan Morley and I thought it would make a stage Page 4 Page 9 angela morley on coward special kt sullivan loves noël coward alan farley’’s christmas broadcast links with letter jermyn street joy rounds off the coward christmas Each year Alan Farley produces a about the tragedy of the fall of France in when she saw the book, she pleaded with On the 16th December 2004 at the end of a Coward Christmas Special on KALW May 1940. Noël’s young pianist played me to allow her read the book in 24 hectic round of Coward celebrations a 91.7 FM radio in San Francisco (which Clair de Lune in the background. I’ve hours before she returned to Canada. The triumphant threesome accompanied by the can be heard across the world by the way been trying to find that poem all my life. following day, I called Norman, to tell indefatigable Jed Sistler gave voice to the best on the Internet). Amongst the items in In 1954, during Noël Coward recordings, him that I was coming over to get my of The Master’s songs in A Birthday Toast To this year’s collection of delights was an I asked him about the poem and he said book from his friend and he said that she Noël Coward. After a rousing overture from interview with Angela Morley who as that he would look for it for me. The already left for Canada and that she had Jed; KT Sullivan, Karen Kohler and Craig Wally Stott created the last UK orchestral evening after the last recording session, taken my book with her. I was so Rubano started the evening with Sail Away. recording of Noël Coward before he left he drove me home to Kensington and, appalled to hear this news and ask him The programme saw KT lovingly emphasing for Las Vegas. This interview chimed in just before I got out of the car, presented for her name and address. He told me the poignancy of Zigeuner and then joined by well with a letter received by Dominic me with a copy of his recent that he didn’t know her name or her Craig in Dear Little Cafe. Craig then romped Vlasto from Angela address! Well, my book through Nina and left the stage for Karen to describing a story of her and the poem were gone sing Parisian Pierrot and 20th Century Blues. time with Noël that Alan and there was nothing Craig followed with You Were There and then featured on the that I could do about. KT delivered He Never Did That To Me and programme. In 1962 (?), I did about Mad About The Boy. Craig tackled arguably Here it is: two thirds of the one of the most difficult numbers Matelot December 1st 2004 orchestrations for Sail with aplomb then joined with Karen for Has Dear Dominic, Away at the Savoy Karen Kohler, KT Sullivan & Craig Rubano at A Birthday Salute to Noël Coward Thank you for your letter. Theatre and spent I wonder if you could help several days in NC’s Anybody Seen Our Ship. KT rendered a personal me find a poem that Noël company at rehearsals. I favourite in Why Do The Wrong People Travel and recited on stage in Paris in couldn’t possibly reveal relished every false ending the song allows and more! November 1944. At that that I had lost his book, In the second half they gave us: I Travel Alone, World time, I was a member of the poem and his Weary, I’ll Follow My Secret Heart, ‘the piece’ from Geraldo’s Orchestra which dedication to me. If you Private Lives with Some Day I’ll Find You; the poem was sent by ENSA to can help me, which is so I’m No Good At Love and then Never Again. An old Paris to play for the very unlikely after all party-stopper that many of us have used followed, as British armed forces. We these years, I would be they all feasted on Coward’s Porter spoof Let’s Do It! The evening ended with If Love Were All, Home Sweet played at the Marigny Angela Morley at the piano very grateful. Theatre on the Champs- Now, there is something Heaven from High Spirits, I’ll See You Again, The Elysées in a sort of variety show. Noël autobiography with the poem written in else to tell you that you will find Party’s Over Now and Come The Wild Wild Weather. was the top of the bill of course and we his own handwriting. I was so exited that interesting. Without knowing anything The evening was directed by Hope Hardcastle and sat on the stage behind him. He recited a I just had to show it to Norman Newell, about you, apart from the contents of you resulted from an idea by Geoffrey Skinner. The poem in French (I think?) which was the producer of the recording. Norman letter, I can hazard a guess that you were Jermyn Street Theatre did there usual marvellous job. had a Canadian lady staying with him born around the time of the NC Following the show members joined the cast with a recordings or maybe slightly later celebratory glass of champagne and a chance to take Karen Kohler, Jed Distler (piano) , KT Sullivan & Craig Rubano perhaps in 1955 or 6. How could I know photographs and talk Coward! John Knowles this? Well a friend called Christine relative values sparks loan scheme narrative poem P&O Parker asked me who had written to me 1930 - an interesting from England. I said Dominic Vlasto. During the run of Relative Values at The production appears at their local theatre idea that could She said, “But I was tutored at Girton by Maddermarket Theatre in Norwich, UK (for at least a week to make the effort perhaps have done a Jill Vlasto and I remember that she had the Society provided a display worthwhile) then let John Knowles know with some extra a baby that she called Dominic!” How advertising the Society and showing and he will send the display to you with verve and more about that for coincidence?! photographs from the original 1951 a pack of membership leaflets and Home closely oberved Sincerest regards, production and text about the play from Chats. The display stand consists of a character acting. Angela Morley Coward and drama critics of the period. threefold lightweight stand that will fit Relative Values www.angelamorley.com We attended the production on the the usual folding (dinner) tables used in was an excellent evening when there was a post-show theatres for display. All of the display production with A big thank you to all those members discussion and helped the cast in items are attached by velcro. If the play notable who have sponsored the re-release of answering questions about the play. Back run warrants it then some original performances the Wally Stott & Noël Coward album copies of Home Chat and membership production photographs can be provided from the being produced by Must Close Saturday leaflets were left with the display with with pertinent text etc. actors in the Records. If you are interested in the hope that we will have encouraged The Maddermarket was host to Pass The roles of Nigel sponsoring a track on this recording prsopective members to take the plunge Port earlier in January after its run at the and Moxie then please email AdrianWright@must- and join us! If anyone is prepared to Edinburgh Festival last year. This and from Judi Angela Morley conducting an orchestra during the recording of and, close-saturday-records.co.uk carry out a similar role when a Coward musical piece is based on Coward’s The Slipper and The Rose Daykin who directed & played Felicity! Page 8 Page 5 AFTER THE BALL on stage & recording The flower-laying ceremonies last This production provides a wonderful The chance to see this rare gem simply to by Rex Bunnett in his excellent numbers are on the CD, which with other All my life ago with such eloquence December in both New York and London opportunity to hear rarely performed could not be missed. Following the booklet accompanying the CD. The main songs by Vanessa Lee and Graham Payn proves that, even without the top C’s the appropriately honoured Noël Coward’s Coward music. The lilting I Knew That performance, Tony Walton and several problem seemed to be the beautiful voice show the musical was far from the lady still had star quality. birthday in a festive actors from the cast of Mary Ellis had, as Rex puts it, “lost disaster some showbiz columnists had It is rather sad that one has to search, manner. Another graciously met Society some of its magic” and when Noël first predicted from viewings on tour. Sweet often in vain, for a radio programme celebration members for a discussion and saw the show in Bristol he said Mary Day and I knew that you would be my where such excellent scores are broadcast occurred in New questions. Mr. Walton spoke Ellis “acted well but sang so badly I love are beautifully done by Vanessa and, to a wider public - perhaps Edward York on the actual of having seen the original could hardly hear it”. Several of the on the latter, with Peter Graves. Seckerson’s enjoyable Radio 3 birth date, production in London when songs Noël had written for her were cut - Something on a tray, delivered in true programmes might give this CD a spin. December 16th. he was an art student. While much of the book was re-written with the comedic style by Irene Browne - has As ever, Sepia provides an excellent

The occasion was Photograph by Carol Rosegg working on a production of ever faithful Cole Lesley - a little less lyrics with which many Senior Citizens bonus of songs - eight in all - the great the opening night Conversation Piece several Wilde and more Coward gave the show will associate! One of the show’s most rarity being Graham Payn’s original 78 of of Coward’s 1954 years later in New York, he the lift it badly needed. I saw the show charming - that word again! - songs is Sigh no More and Matelot - marvellous operetta After The got to know Coward who during its week in Leeds where rewrites Graham Payn’s May I have the pleasure to hear them again without the surface Ball, based on spoke of his disappointment and long rehearsals were held daily - but sung with all the sincerity of his wedding hiss of my now, slightly worn shellac. Oscar Wilde’s Lady with the original production it was obvious the show was in the toast in Pacific 1860 - and I come from a Graham appears again, with introduction Windermere’s Fan. of After The Ball. The actors process of re-organisation still. I spoke to far away land provides him with another by The Master, to sing In a boat on a It was presented by spoke of working to find a The Master at the end of the mid-week excellent number. Noël wrote in his lake with my darling (Ace of Clubs) - a balance between the differing The Irish Repertory The Cast show and in reply to his question “Did diaries that in this show he has ‘turned very much better interpretation than that rhythms of Coward and Theatre, known for Duchess of Berwick ...... Kathleen Widdoes you enjoy it?” I said I thought the show out some of the best lyrics I have ever on the ‘Great Shows’ CD with a most Wilde. Dealing with innovative staging Mrs. Erlynne ...... Mary Illes had much charm. Without a pause he written’ and there’s no denying that. One attractive accompaniment. Other bonus difficulties of Coward’s music was also of rare or neglected plays. As Lady Windermere ...... Kristin Huxhold replied “How much?” The show was has only to listen to Oh, what a century tracks come from Pacific 1860 and two discussed. Questions from the members the work had never been seen Lord Windermere ...... Paul Carlin very different when I saw it on its first it’s been, London by night and Why is it by Vanessa Lee from Gay’s the Word - about Coward and the production in New York, this was indeed a Lord Darlington ...... David Staller night in London - the word ‘charm’ the woman who pays? to agree with The Ivor Novello’s last musical. A somewhat brought this very special evening to a special treat for Coward fans. Lady Agatha ...... Collette Simmons being, to me, even more applicable. True, Master and a very able chorus perform dubious connection for this CD, close. This handsome, charming Mr. Hopper ...... Greg Mills Miss Ellis no longer had the glorious them to perfection. Why then, with such beautifully sung though they are. I just Ken Starrett production was directed and Mr. Dumby ...... Josh Grisetti voice that had thrilled audiences at the a collection of excellent items, did the wonder what The Master would have to designed by Tony Walton. An Lord Augustus ...... Drew Eshelman Metropolitan Opera House and Drury show have a run of only 188 say! Released early in the US to coincide elegant London of 1892 is Lady Plymdale ...... Elizabeth Inghram Lane - but she had great style and her performances? Noël said, methinks Too late for Christmas, but this CD is created by clever use with the stage show, After two songs Light is the Heart and All my somewhat unfairly, “the whole project perfect for a Valentine gift and, of course, of simple draperies, The Ball was finally life Ago proved she had lost none of her has been sabotaged by Mary not being one for yourself! a few gilded chairs, released on the 1st stage expertise. Fortunately these able to sing it.” To hear Miss Ellis sing Stephen Marshall and warm lighting February in the UK on effects. Inventive Sepia 1043 Tracks are: direction makes the Stephen Marshall reports... 1. Oh, What A Century It’s Been - Chorus best possible use of What has to be the first 2. I Knew That You Would Be My Love - Vanessa Lee, Peter Graves the theatre’s tiny Photograph by Carol Rosegg treasure of the year for all 3. Mr. Hopper’s Chanty - Graham Payn, Dennis Bowen, Tom Gill stage. Barry Day has Coward collectors is the 4. Sweet Day - Vanessa Lee done a skillful beautifully re-mastered CD 5. Quartette - Chorus adaptation of the release of the second of his 6. Crème De La Crème - Chorus original lavish most underrated scores - 7. Light Is The Heart - Mary Ellis production that had a After the Ball (the first, 8. Why Is It The Woman Who Pays - Chorus cast of more than obviously being, Pacific 9. London At Night - Chorus sixty. By using a 1860). The Master had high 10. Aria - Vanessa Lee narration done in hopes of his musical, based 11. May I Have The Pleasure - Graham Payn, Irene Browne entertaining rhyming on Oscar Wilde’s Lady 12. All My Life Ago - Mary Ellis couplets, Mr. Day Windermere’s Fan and 13. Faraway Land - Graham Payn, Patricia Cree has condensed the considered it “really up my 14. Something On A Tray - Irene Browne plot and number of characters to create You Would Be My Love, the delicate Stay musical alley”, although at the time 15. Clear Bright Morning - Vanessa Lee an intimate ‘chamber musical’ for a cast On The Side Of The Angels the bright doubts were expressed whether such a 16. Reprise: London At Night - Chorus hopeful Faraway Land and the combination would work. When the Bonus Tracks: of ten. The talented actors have carefully 23. Finder, Please Return - Vanessa Lee 3:08 deliciously comic Something On A Tray casting was announced - the superb Mary 17. Matelot - Graham Payn acquired the deportment, delicate style 24. On Such A Night As This - Vanessa Lee 3:07 and attitude necessary for this play of are a few memorable highlights in this Ellis with Vanessa Lee, Irene Browne, 18. Sigh No More - Graham Payn lovely graceful score. Peter Graves and Graham Payn - it 19. Dear Madame Salvador/My Horse Has Cast A Shoe - Mary Martin And manners. Several members of the cast Sepia Records A bitterly cold evening of 11 degrees in seemed the odds were very much in Graham Payn not only sing and act, but also play Catalogue No: SEPIA 1043 no way deterred the audience from favour. However, news of the early weeks 20. Bright Was The Day - Mary Martin And Graham Payn various musical instruments to Barcode: 5055122110439 attending the performance held for the of the pre-London tour of the show were 21. Fumfumbolo - Graham Payn accompany the play’s very romantic email [email protected] score. Noël Coward Society on January 18th. not good, some of the problems referred 22. In A Boat On A Lake With My Darling (Live Recording) - Graham Payn website: www.sepiarecords.com Page 6 Page 7