By Michelle Hines , University Relations
Contact: (336) 334-5371
Posted: 4-3-07
GREENSBORO, NC – UNCG Theatre will present Noel Coward’s slickly sophisticated romantic comedy “Private Lives” April 11-14, April 25 and April 28 in Taylor Theatre.
“Private Lives” marked the pinnacle of Coward’s career when he wrote it in 1930. He starred in the original cast alongside his lifelong friend the musical comedy legend Gertrude Lawrence. It is also significant as a showcase for Coward’s wistful ballad, “Someday I’ll Find You.”
The play revolves around Elyot and Amanda, a divorced couple who become unexpectedly reacquainted while honeymooning with their new spouses – whom they quickly abandon in order to resume their torrid passion for each other. The trouble is, although Elyot and Amanda love each other desperately, they are as compatible as two scorpions in a bottle.
According to Coward's friend, biographer and estate executor, Graham Payn, Amanda was actually based in part on Doris Delvigne, a glamorous figure of 1920s society whose brief marriage to Lord Castlerosse was far from tranquil. According to Payn when an acquaintance, Lady Kenmore, congratulated Coward and Lawrence backstage, but said that “those quarrels and rolling around on the floor” all seemed quite unreal, Coward retorted “You obviously don't know the Castlerosses.”
Coward virtually invented the concept of “Englishness” for the 20th century, and “Private Lives” is the perfect illustration of that concept, said director and UNCG theatre faculty member Jim Wren. Wren also regards Coward as “the first British pop star.”
“It has been many years since UNCG Theatre did a Noel Coward work. It’s a wonderful opportunity to explore this kind of comedy of manners. Creating an imaginary world in which the characters live life with such a style is a joy.”
Drama students Josh Purvis and Alison Pentland star. Scene designer is Janelle Labitzke, costume designer is Erin Dougherty, lighting designer is Claire Garrard.
Show times are April 11, 12 and 25 at 7 p.m.; April 13, 14 and 28 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for seniors and students, $8 for UNCG Alumni Association members and groups of 10 or more and $7 for UNCG Students. Purchase tickets at http://boxoffice.uncg.edu by calling (336) 334-4849 or by arriving at Taylor Theatre an hour before each performance. Theatergoers can park behind the Weatherspoon Art Museum.
