Private Lives
Gielgud Theatre
Reviewed on Tuesday 2nd July 2013
Imagine this: You are in an explosive relationship, get divorced and then re-marry. However, while on your honeymoon you find yourself not only in the same hotel, but in the room next door to your ex-partner who is also on their honeymoon. What would you do?
Private Lives is a play which is written and performed with class. Featuring four strong, contrasting characters, Noel Coward’s writing has most certainly stood the test of time and remains extremely humorous. The witty one-liners do not stop coming, many times I found myself laughing uncontrollably and with my mouth wide open.
Sometimes it is hard to distinguish whether the success of a production comes down to superb direction, faultless acting or strong writing. However, in this case I think the success of the piece comes down to a combination of all three. Most importantly Anna Chancellor and Toby Stephens have nailed Amanda and Elyot's complex relationship which goes through countless ups and downs throughout the duration of the piece.
Anna Chancellor is perfectly cast as Amanda. She clearly understands the role and portrays the character's high status extremely well. Sometimes I sympathised with her, although at times I thought she was being cruel - Anna strikes the perfect balance. Toby Stephens is somewhat intriguing as Elyot, I love the intelligence of the character which is demonstrated during the third act.
Anthony Calf gives a good performance as poor, helpless Victor who doesn't really know how to handle the situation and I loved Anna-Louise Plowman's unpredictable characterisation of Sibyl who doesn't seem to know whether she's coming or going. A mention must also go to Sue Kelvin who plays Louise. While the part is small, Sue plays it well and I look forward to seeing her play Madame Morrible when she joins the West End production of Wicked later this year!
As the play begins, Anthony Ward's design seems fairly simplistic. Therefore, after the first act ended I was not expecting the whole stage to revolve, revealing a glorious, impressive set which is incredibly detailed. It is then tremendous fun to watch Amanda and Elyot tear the place apart... literally.
Private Lives provides two hours of theatrical bliss, nothing beats a good comedy! Noel Coward's play somehow manages to be easygoing, funny and shocking all at the same time. I highly recommend you see this outstanding production.
Reviewed by Andrew Tomlins (Editor)
andrew@westendframe.com
Private Lives runs at the Gielgud Theatre until 21st September 2013.
Click here to book tickets.
Photo Credit 1: Tristram Kenton
Photo Credit 2: Johan Persson
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