Noel Coward, playwright, screenwriter, novelist, director, producer, actor, composer

British (b. Teddington, England, 1899-1973)

An important playwright, screenwriter and actor, Coward's early controversial plays caused excitement in the theatre. Coward appeared on stage and screen, often starring in his own works, which ranged from musicals to drama. He received a special Oscar for producing, co- directing, scoring and starring in the film In Which We Serve (1942). Coward's works include the plays Private Lives (1930, London and 1931, New York), Blithe Spirit (1941, London and New York) and Nude with Violin (1956, London and 1957, New York). Coward also wrote novels and songs, including the infamous melody Mad Dogs and Englishmen.

Beth Bishop 1996