Biopic play of Marlene Dietrich comes to the New Vic Theatre

Sep 14 2011 by Will Harris, Crewe Chronicle

A BIOPIC of entertainment icon Marlene Dietrich’s twilight years is performed at the New Vic Theatre in Newcastle this week.

Set in Paris in the 1970s, it tells the tale of the legendary screen and stage actress who, at that time, was still performing in her seventies.

A theatre spokeswoman said: “Acutely aware of her celebrity status, Marlene is as fierce as ever. But backstage, as she gossips, gives press interviews and appears the demanding diva, we glimpse the nerves, the pressure and the need for applause.

“Singer, actress, Hollywood star, glamorous beauty, wartime idol and cabaret performer, Marlene was a showbiz legend.

“Interspersed with much-loved songs of a bygone era, including You Do Something To Me, Le Vie En Rose, Lili Marlene and Falling In Love Again, this is a moving celebration of the woman behind the myth.”

Writer Pam Gems describes her as ‘‘A modern icon. A made woman. A stayer. Tough, hard to please, alluring, comforting... and there for us. The working Madonna.’’

The show runs from tomorrow (Thursday) until September 22. Tickets are priced £9.50-£18.50, to book call 01782 717962 or visit www.newvictheatre.org.uk.