Sheridan Morley’s hit 1983 play NOEL AND GERTIE, that ran in London continuously for nine years. has come back to life with a very polished and classy production helmed by Aussie music theatre legend Nancye Hayes.

NOEL AND GERTIE t recounts a kind of a love story, though of-course not in the conventional sense.

The couple knew each other from when they shared acting classes when they were  mere fourteen years olds and remained in close contact all their lives until Gertrude Lawrence’s untimely death from cancer. The world of theatre benefited greatly from their wonderful creative partnership, as they supported each other through difficult times and spurred one another on to greater artistic achievements.

There is no doubting the authenticity of the relationship that is presented on stage through song and dance and the couple playing out some of the most memorable scenes from the Master’s works including BRIEF ENCOUNTER. The late writer’s credentials were second to none. Morley wrote the first and definitive biography of Coward, his 1969 publication, A TALENT TO AMUSE. Coward famously gave Morley his full blessing to tell his story, providing him with a full list of his friends, and another of his enemies, telling him to start with the second list first- which he advised would make for a much better book!

The shining talent that has come out of WAAPA is on show in this two-hander. James Millar and Lucy Maunder, with flawless diction and in perfect period attire, together capture the warmth and playfulness that this formidable duo shared.

A special night at the theatre,NOEL AND GERTIE is playing the Glen Street Theatre until June 1, followed by Penrith’s Q Theatre between the 5th and 8th June, Parramatta’s Riverside between the 11th and 15th June, 2013.