Private Lives | London Classic Theatre | Review

Connaught Theatre, Worthing until Wednesday 7th March

Noel Coward’s Private Lives

London Classic Theatre are touring the UK and Ireland with Noel Coward’s Private Lives and last night played at the Connaught Theatre Worthing.

The well-known battle of the sexes play is set in the glamourous 1930s, the simple set is perfectly atmospheric of a luxury hotel in Deauville in the first act and a contemporary Parisienne apartment in act two.

Private Lives explores the complex intertwined relationships between the key characters who are excellently portrayed by Olivia Beardsley (Sibyl), Gareth Bennett-Ryan (Elyot), Helen Keeley (Amanda) and Paul Sandys ( Victor). The two newly married couples occupy adjacent honeymoon suites in an elegant hotel. From their balconies,  Sibyl and Elyot and Amanda and Victor offer the audience an insight into their newly married lives but a twist of fate reignites a spark from their past with life changing consequences.

The lives of the idle rich of the time are keenly observed by Coward and the four actors accurately reflect the frivolity of the 1930s and move the play along at a fast neck pace with comedic timing.

The audience were enthralled throughout at the razor-sharp wit and quick fire dialogue.  A truly delightful fun evening.

Reviewer: Sandra Jenkins
Photo Credit: Sheila Burnett

 

☆☆☆☆

 

Private Lives plays at the Connaught Theatre Worthing until Wednesday 7th March.

For tickets and more information click here

For more tour dates see the London Classic Theatre