Writers' Theatre in IL Toasts a Master in Oh Coward! Nov. 17

By Kenneth Jones
November 17, 2009

Kate Fry, Rob Lindley and John Sanders are the dry-as-martinis performers in a new Chicago-area production of Oh Coward!, the revue of songs by sophisticated composer-songwriter Noël Coward, starting Nov. 17 at Writers' Theatre.

The Glencoe, IL, company devoted to "the word and the artist" will run the show to March 21, 2009. Opening is Dec. 2.

Jim Corti directs, Doug Peck is musical director. The show includes rueful, romantic and comic songs by composer-lyricist Coward.

According to Writers' Theatre, "You’re invited to a marvelous party! Weaving together songs and literary delights, Oh Coward! celebrates one of the theatre's greatest entertainers — Noël Coward — who gave us the beloved works Blithe Spirit, Private Lives and Hay Fever. His effervescent music and charming quips combine for an unforgettable evening of the most memorable tunes of the 20th century."

The production team includes scenic designer Kevin Depinet, lighting designer Jesse Klug, costume designer Rachel Anne Healy and sound design by Ray Nardelli.

The show was first devised by Roderick Cook.

Writers' Theatre is run by artistic director Michael Halberstam and executive director Kathryn M. Lipuma.

Performances play 664 Vernon Avenue. For more information, writerstheatre.org.

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Writers' Theatre "is a professional company focusing on the Word and the Artist. Remaining true to the intention of the playwright and nurturing the artist stand at the center of the mission. Now in its 18th season, the company both revives classic scripts and cultivates new works and adaptations while invigorating them with fresh energy in the intimacy of its venues. Founded in 1992, Writers' Theatre performed exclusively at Books on Vernon, 664 Vernon Avenue for the first 12 years. In the fall of 2003, the organization opened a new 108 seat performance venue at 325 Tudor Court. Today, Writers' Theatre continues to produce in both spaces, maintaining an intimate theatrical experience for audiences.