Noël Coward

Playwright and composer of 'Blithe Spirit'

Noël Coward - Playwright and composer of 'Blithe Spirit'
Born

December 16th, 1899
125 years ago

Died

March 26th, 1973
52 years ago — 73 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

A prolific English playwright, actor, and composer, this individual created works that encapsulated wit and sophistication. Major contributions include iconic plays such as 'Blithe Spirit' and 'Hay Fever', alongside numerous songs and musical compositions. Acclaimed for theatrical productions, performances showcased sharp dialogue and clever characterizations, reflecting the social milieu of the time. Work extended to film, with involvement in adaptations of various plays. This individual held a significant position in the British theatre scene during the 20th century, attracting audiences with engaging narratives and memorable melodies.

Wrote the play 'Blithe Spirit'

Created the musical 'CABARET'

Acted in 'In Which We Serve'

Other People Born on December 16th

Benny Andersson

Swedish Pop Musician, ABBA Co-founder
Born
December 16th, 1946 78 years ago

This individual is a Swedish singer-songwriter, pianist, and music producer. He gained recognition as a co-founder of the pop group ABBA, which became one of the best-selling music groups of all time. The group formed in 1972 and achieved international success with hit songs and albums. After ABBA disbanded in 1982, this musician continued to compose music for theatre and film, achieving critical acclaim with projects including the musical 'Chess'. Work as a producer also included contributions to documentary films and solo projects for various artists. Focus shifted to writing music for the stage, culminating in successful collaborations and new musical compositions.

Continue Reading

Menahem Pressler

Pianist and chamber music performer
Born
December 16th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 100 years old

An influential pianist, studied at the Jerusalem Academy of Music and Dance and later at the Paris Conservatoire. Co-founded the Beaux Arts Trio in 1955, a chamber ensemble that gained significant acclaim. Notable for performances of classical piano works and contributions to chamber music. Pressler also taught at various prestigious institutions, contributing to the education of future generations of musicians. Received numerous awards and accolades throughout a long and distinguished career.

Continue Reading

Bertha Lamme Feicht

Electrical engineer and inventor
Born
December 16th, 1869 155 years ago
Died
1943 82 years ago — 74 years old

An electrical engineer contributed to the field of electrical engineering with significant innovations. Graduated from Ohio State University and became one of the first female electrical engineers. Worked at Westinghouse Electric Company, where developed methods for electrical transformer design and efficiency. Pioneered the integration of engineering with technical education for women, advocating for more female representation in the field. Also held a position as a member of the American Institute of Electrical Engineers.

Continue Reading

Theo James

Actor in 'Divergent' series
Born
December 16th, 1984 40 years ago

An English actor gained recognition through roles in film and television. Starred as Tobias Eaton in the 'Divergent' series, which included 'Divergent', 'Insurgent', and 'Allegiant'. Appeared in the television series 'Bedlam' and 'The Time Machine'. Worked in various genres, showcasing versatility in performance.

Continue Reading

Robert Bertie

1st Earl of Lindsey, soldier and nobleman
Born
December 16th, 1582 442 years ago
Died
October 24th, 1642 382 years ago — 59 years old

Born in 1582, served as a prominent soldier during the early 17th century. Held the title of 1st Earl of Lindsey from 1626. Played a significant role in the military conflicts of the period, notably during the early stages of the English Civil War. Participated in various military campaigns and served under King Charles I. Engaged in political affairs and managed estates, contributing to his family's prominence.

Continue Reading

Alcides Escobar

Professional baseball player, MLB All-Star
Born
December 16th, 1986 38 years ago

A professional baseball player with a significant career in Major League Baseball, primarily as a shortstop. Made debut with the Milwaukee Brewers in 2010 and later played for the Kansas City Royals from 2011 to 2018. Played a crucial role in leading the Royals to a World Series championship in 2015. Achieved an All-Star selection in 2015, showcasing exceptional defensive skills throughout the career.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on March 26th

Barghash bin Said of Zanzibar

Sultan of Zanzibar and East African ruler
Born
1837 188 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1888 137 years ago — 51 years old

Ruled Zanzibar from 1870 until 1888, instrumental in the development of the island's economy and infrastructure. Oversaw the expansion of clove plantations, which became a significant export. Strengthened diplomatic ties with Western powers and modernized the sultanate's governance. Fostered education and established modern institutions. Engaged in conflicts with rival powers, notably during the Anglo-Zanzibar War in 1896, which occurred shortly after death.

Continue Reading

Roland Barthes

French linguist and literary theorist
Born
November 12th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1980 45 years ago — 64 years old

A prominent figure in literary theory and semiotics, contributed significantly to the understanding of texts and interpretation. Explored various areas including structuralism, mythology, and narrative theory. Authored several influential works that shaped literary criticism, particularly focusing on the relation between language and meaning. His ideas in 'Mythologies' and 'S/Z' interrogated the complexities of representation in culture, critique, and sign systems, establishing a foundational perspective in post-structuralist thought.

Continue Reading

Jacob Ziv

Electrical engineer and compression algorithm developer
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
March 26th, 2023 2 years ago — 92 years old

An Israeli electrical engineer contributed significantly to the field of data compression through the development of the LZ family of compression algorithms. These algorithms have become foundational in various applications, including file compression and image encoding. The work laid the groundwork for effective data transmission and storage solutions, influencing both academic research and commercial software products. Collaborations with other engineers and researchers led to advancements in information theory and practical implementations of compression techniques throughout the tech industry.

Continue Reading

Ludger

Frisian missionary and bishop
Died
March 26th, 809 1216 years ago — None years old

As a Frisian missionary, played a crucial role in the Christianization of Frisia during the 8th century. Founded several monasteries, including the notable one at Werden. Served as the bishop of Münster, establishing the diocese and promoting education and scholarship. Worked closely with influential leaders like Charlemagne to support the spread of Christianity in the region. His efforts laid the foundation for the Christian faith in what is now the Netherlands and western Germany.

Continue Reading

Walt Whitman

American poet and author of Leaves of Grass
Born
May 31st, 1819 206 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1892 133 years ago — 72 years old

A key figure in American literature, this poet and essayist is celebrated for his groundbreaking work that explored themes of democracy, nature, and the human experience. The publication of 'Leaves of Grass' marked a significant innovation in poetic form and structure, embracing free verse and celebrating individuality and humanity. Throughout a prolific career, the author worked as a journalist and editor, contributing to the discourse of his time. The literary style and themes influenced generations of writers and poets.

Continue Reading

Fabrizio Frizzi

Italian television presenter, host of L'Eredità
Born
1958 67 years ago
Died
March 26th, 2018 7 years ago — 60 years old

An Italian television presenter became well-known for hosting popular game shows and entertainment programs. His career spanned several decades, during which he established a significant presence in Italian media. He gained widespread recognition for hosting 'L'Eredità', a quiz show that captivated audiences and ran for many years. Additionally, he contributed to various television specials and charity events. Frizzi's warm demeanor and connection with the audience made him a beloved figure in Italian television.

Continue Reading