The Final Curtain: Obituaries of Fifty Great Actors

Michael Coveney has written theatrical obituaries for several decades, selecting the best performers of our time. The obituaries are arranged in chronological order of each actor's demise, providing a vivid history of postwar theatre through the lives of the actors.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 15 September 2023
Publisher: Unicorn Publishing Group

For many years, Michael Coveney has been penning theatrical obituaries alongside reviews, showcasing a remarkable and often unexpected selection of the finest performers of our era. Spanning from the legendary Laurence Olivier to the iconic Alan Rickman, Peggy Ashcroft to Helen McCrory, Richard Briers to Ken Dodd, his tribute to these remarkable individuals has graced the pages of various esteemed publications, including the Guardian, Observer, Financial Times, and Evening Standard.

The fifty articles in this collection are meticulously organized chronologically, providing a captivating account of postwar theatre through the lives of these remarkable actors. Coveney's writing captures the essence of these actors' contributions, offering concise yet poignant chronicles that evoke the essence of their time. The reader is treated to a delightful mix of emotions as they navigate through the juxtapositions of shooting stars like Robert Stephens and Alan Bates, the tragic bond between Natasha Richardson and Lynn Redgrave, the regal presence of Diana Rigg and Barbara Jefford, and the versatile talents of Una Stubbs and Lionel Blair.

Coveney's writing is a testament to his deep appreciation for the art of theatre and his ability to capture the essence of its performers. His obituaries not only pay tribute to their achievements but also offer a glimpse into their personal lives and the impact they had on the world of theatre. This collection is a treasure trove for theatre enthusiasts, providing a glimpse into the lives and legacies of some of the greatest actors of our time.

Weight: 750g
Dimension: 166 x 251 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781911397625