Philly Fabulous: Noel Coward’s ‘Hay Fever’ at the Walnut Street Theatre (A Slideshow)
About ‘Hay Fever’ and Noel Coward
We really enjoyed this play and this production marking its 100 year birthday! Noel was super-gay, and super-successful. He wrote ‘Hay Fever’ when he was 25, and went on to become a cultural icon. Even more enjoyable was the Walnut Street Theatre itself (see some info below). Between this, the Bucks County Playhouse (New Hope, PA), and our beloved Music Mountain Theatre (Lambertville, NJ) we’re never lacking great theater to see.
Noël Coward’s play “Hay Fever” is a perfect example of a comedy of manners, blending wit with farce to explore the chaotic dynamics of a bohemian family and their unsuspecting guests. Written in 1924 and first performed in 1925, the play centers around the Bliss family—a quartet of eccentric and self-absorbed individuals each obsessed with their own passions and pursuits. The family includes Judith, a retired actress; her husband David, a novelist; and their two children, Simon and Sorel. The plot thickens as each family member invites a guest to their rural retreat for the weekend, leading to a cacophony of misunderstandings, mismatched romantic entanglements, and humorous social faux pas.
About Noel Coward
“Noël Coward was an English playwright, composer, director, actor, and singer known for his cutting humor and flamboyant style. Born on December 16, 1899, in Teddington, Middlesex, Coward displayed an early talent for the performing arts, making his professional stage debut at the age of 11. Throughout his prolific career, he wrote more than 50 plays, including classics such as “Private Lives,” “Blithe Spirit,” and “Design for Living,” which remain popular in theatres around the world. His works often explore themes of social mores and the complexities of romantic relationships, infused with a keen sense of humor and an astute observation of human nature.
In addition to his success as a playwright, Coward was also a gifted composer and performer. He wrote numerous songs and musical revues, such as “Mad Dogs and Englishmen” and “I’ll See You Again,” which showcased his ability to blend comedy with poignant emotion. During World War II, Coward contributed to the war effort by entertaining troops and producing pro-British propaganda. He was knighted in 1970 for his contributions to the arts, cementing his legacy as one of the most influential figures in 20th-century theatre. Coward’s sophisticated charm and enduring works continue to influence and inspire generations of artists and audiences alike” AND he was super-gay!
About the Walnut Street Theater
Nestled in the heart of Philadelphia’s Center City, and just a yellow brick road away from the Gayborhood, the Walnut Street Theatre is the oldest continuously operating theater in the United States. Established in 1809, it boasts architectural elegance with a neoclassical design. The walls are an adventure in themselves, covered in photographs from over 200 years of performers and performances.
The theatre’s stage has been graced by the likes of Edwin Booth (brother to President Lincoln’s assassin!), who was once hailed as the greatest Hamlet of his time, and the illustrious Helen Hayes, known as the “First Lady of American Theatre.”
The Theatre continues to thrive, offering performances that cater to a wide audience, from Noel Coward’s Hay Fever, which we just saw celebrating its centennial, to shows that are perfect for kids of all ages. It’s yet another reason we love Philadelphia, and we can easily take day trips there, or spend a couple nights at the Morris House Hotel, a history favorite and the only place we stay. Get there if you can!