Who was Michael Blakemore? Tony Award Winning Actor Dead at 95

Michael Blakemore, a revered figure in British stage direction and the sole Broadway director to secure Tony Awards for both Best Play and Best Musical in a single season, passed away on Sunday at the age of 95. The announcement of his death was made by his agents on Tuesday, refraining from disclosing the location of his passing.

While Mr. Blakemore garnered seven Tony nominations throughout his illustrious career, it was his distinctive touch in productions like Peter Nichols’s “A Day in the Death of Joe Egg” in 1968 and Michael Frayn’s “Noises Off” in 1983 that earned him recognition.

However, it was the finesse and dedication he brought to the revival of Cole Porter’s “Kiss Me, Kate” and later Frayn’s “Copenhagen” that earned him the remarkable achievement of winning Best Direction of a Musical and Best Direction of a Play in 2000. The former production not only garnered five Tonys, including Best Revival of a Musical but also secured the Best Actor in a Musical award for Brian Stokes Mitchell.

Born in Sydney, Australia, Mr. Blakemore crafted his career in Britain, initially as an actor and later as one of Laurence Olivier’s associate directors at the National Theater in London. During his tenure, he directed successful productions such as “The National Health” and revivals of “The Front Page” and Eugene O’Neill’s “Long Day’s Journey Into Night,” featuring Olivier in the lead role.

Despite widespread expectations that Mr. Blakemore would succeed Olivier as the National’s artistic director in 1973, the position went to Peter Hall, sparking a strained relationship between the two directors. Mr. Blakemore resigned in 1976 but continued to thrive as a freelance director.

His collaboration with Michael Frayn commenced in 1980 with the direction of “Make and Break,” followed by the acclaimed “Noises Off” in 1983. This inventive farce, depicting second-rate actors attempting a slapstick sex farce, transcended from London to Broadway, enjoying a successful run of 553 performances.

Michael Blakemore’s legacy is one of innovation, versatility, and a commitment to the art of storytelling, leaving an indelible mark on both British and Broadway stages. As the theater world mourns his passing, his contributions will continue to inspire generations of directors and performers.