Celebrating Ivor Novello

A Magdalen College School Production with Alex Thomas and MCS alumni (OWs!)

Songwriter, film-star, playwright, composer, impresario…

From early years as a chorister at Magdalen College School, Ivor Novello went on to become the biggest figure in British theatre for much of the 1930s, 40s and 50s. He died 75 years ago, just hours after performing the lead role in one of his own smash-hit musicals. This much-loved icon of the stage and screen is less remembered now than most of his contemporaries. This evening, Mr Alex Thomas (Head of Drama) will be joined by MCS Old Waynfletes to recreate songs and scenes from his works to pay tribute to the man who was known in the industry as ‘Dear Ivor’.

The Library and Archives of Magdalen College School will be exhibiting artefacts from the MCS archive relating to Ivor Novello’s life and career, including school records of his time at Magdalen College School. Big School (aka Festival Hall) will be open from 5.30pm for this. Entrance to the display is free.

Image © estate of Paul Tanqueray