Monday 15 June 1992

Coward and his leading lady inspiration for play


January 14, 1992


Noel and Gertie tells of the fascination and love between English playwright Noel Coward and actress and comedienne Gertrude Lawrence since they met at the age of 13.


The stars of Noel and Gertie, Kate Peters and Ian Croker


Although their relationship was not sexual, their performing partnership was fuelled by his private fascination with her.


She inspired him endlessly and he wrote some of his most magical work for her to perform - Private Lives, Blithe Spirit and Still Life all echoed some part of her.


Noel and Gertie is an entertainment devised by Sheridan Morley with words and music by Noel Coward.


The show recreates some of the most famous moments of their lives and the productions the couple starred in.


The show is presented by Kate Peters and Associates and the Canberra Southern Cross Club.


The songs, dance, humour, unforgettable characters and razor sharp repartee are all a feature of this new show which will be held at the Southern Cross Club on Friday and Saturday nights February 7 and 8, February 14 and 15 and February 21 and 22.


The show is $14 or $32 with dinner. Bookings 281 5755.


Noel once said of Gertie, “I wish so deeply, so very deeply, that I could see her just once more playing in a play of mine; from the time we started together as child actors in Liverpool, we have been integrally part of each others lives. “No-one I have ever known, however gifted or however brilliant, has contributed quite what she contributed to my work.”


“Her quality was to me unique and her magic imperishable.”


First published in The Canberra Chronicle, January 14, 1992




February 20, 1992


Canberra Times ad, February 20, 1992

Editor's note: An extra performance was added due to audience demand: Saturday February 29, 1992