Star Quality

Description

'We're putting on a play, not fighting a bloody war. Why can't people in the theatre behave like normal human beings?' In his wickedly funny final play, Noel Coward takes us behind the scenes of a new West End production. Conjuring up an authentic backstage world of talent and treachery, Coward creates a gallery of unforgettable characters; temperamental leading lady, ruthless director, jaded old troupers and, caught somewhere between them all, innocent young playwright. From tentative first rehearsal to triumphant opening night, the clash of egos becomes increasingly and hilariously bloody. But what emerges from the mayhem is a startling evocation of that most elusive gift of all - star quality.

Noel Coward (1899-1973) was not only an important British playwrightand lyricist but he also wrote fiction, three volumes of autobiography,and numerous reflections in other genres which number well over 100different works. He was also a distinguished actor and cabaretperformer. He was easily one of this century's greatest wits.