Selected Musical Plays by Noel Coward: A Critical Anthology

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Noël Coward's contributions as a playwright, songwriter, and actor have been widely celebrated, yet his impact on British musical theatre has often been overlooked. This anthology addresses that oversight, showcasing Coward's adaptability and the diverse styles that characterized British musicals from the 1920s to the 1970s. It features his works ranging from unsuccessful shows at Drury Lane with Mary Martin to Broadway successes with Elaine Stritch, encompassing various forms like revue, musical comedy, and operetta. The collection offers a contemporary critical introduction to Coward's musical repertoire, highlighting the breadth of his creativity and the varied identities of his collaborators and performers. Despite the differing styles, a common thread runs through these works—Coward's sharp and witty social observations. This volume serves as a timely exploration of Coward's legacy and its enduring influence on British theatre, featuring notable works such as This Year of Grace (1928), Bitter Sweet (1929), Words and Music (1932), Pacific 1860 (1946), Ace of Clubs (1949), Sail Away (1961), and The Girl Who Came to Supper (1963).