“Lights, camera, action!” Imagine those words echoing on Rue Armand Numès. This street commemorates a man who lived for the stage and screen. Let’s explore the life of Armand Numès.
Rue Armand Numès honors Armand Juda Numès. He was born in Paris on July 7, 1857. He passed away in Asnières-sur-Seine on May 2, 1933. Armand Numès was a multifaceted talent. He excelled as a playwright, lyricist, actor, and director.
Initially, Armand Numès pursued acting. He began his acting career around 1872. When he started writing with Édouard Hermil, he adopted the stage name “Numès”. Together, they crafted numerous vaudevilles. Their work also graced the stages of café-concerts. These performances likely began around 1880. Their shows were generally comedies. They created operettas and farces. These productions were successful. They were often performed between the grand boulevards and Montmartre.
Armand Numès collaborated with his brother Léon Nunès. Léon directed La Cigale. Together, they co-wrote songs. This collaboration began as early as 1877.
Numès ventured into film acting in 1909. The following year, he began directing. One of his well-known films is a short comedy. It is titled “La Rente viagère” and was co-directed with Georges Monca in 1909.
Armand Numès also appeared in several films as an actor. These included “La Victime de Sophie” in 1910. He starred in “La Bien-aimée” in 1912 and “Le Contrôleur des wagons-lits” in 1913. Later in his career, he played Monsieur Cordier in “La Route du devoir” in 1918. He also appeared in “Romain Kalbris” in 1923 and “La Tête d’un homme” in 1933.
Numès also worked as a screenwriter. His talents were diverse and significant.
For his contributions, Armand Numès received the Chevalier de la Légion d’Honneur. This honor was bestowed by the Ministry of Public Instruction. His nephew Pierre Mortier served as his sponsor. He also was named Officier de l’Instruction Publique and Officier de l’Ordre du Nichan Iftikhar.
Armand Numès is buried in the old cemetery of Asnières-sur-Seine. His legacy lives on through his works. Rue Armand Numès serves as a reminder of his contributions to French entertainment.
So, as you walk along Rue Armand Numès, remember the laughter and entertainment he brought to audiences. He was a true artist of his time. His work continues to resonate today.