Peter Curtis

Peter Curtis (1919-2006) was an actor, director, and theatre manager.

Biography

Born in England in 1919, he graduated at the University of London and later became involved in theatrical productions in Salisbury. He attended training courses through the British Drama league and joined the Questors Theatre in 1946, where he acted in and directed numerous productions. He also performed for Richmond Stage Society. His notable roles included Sir Harry Flutter in The Discovery, Archer in The Beaux Stratagem, Jack Worthing in The Importance of Being Earnest and Charleston in Thunder Rock. In 1951 he came to South Africa with his wife Jennifer Craig and appeared in many successful theatrical productions in Cape Town, Durban and Port Elizabeth under the name Peter Craig. In 1967 he was appointed Artistic Director of the CAPAB English Company and staged over 110 productions which built a strong reputation for the company across South Africa. In1979, He returned to England and later moved to Canada to join the Citadel Theatre Company in Edmonton. He also directed and performed for other companies in Canada and the USA. In later years, his most successful performances were as Sir in Ronald Harwood’s The Dresser (1984) and Cauchon in Nicol Williamson’s production of The Lark (1983). He passed away in Owen Sound, Ontario in 2006.

Youth

Peter was born in London.

Training

He is a graduate of London University.

Career

He was very active in British theatrical circles before coming to South Africa.

Together with Pieter Fourie he ran CAPAB circa 1971. Artistic Director of CAPAB English Drama (1965-1978). In 1978 he was appointed as Artistic Director of the Youth Drama Company (CAPAB).