Review: Fallen Angels (UK Tour) at the Milton Keynes Theatre

Fallen Angels (UK Tour)

Milton Keynes Theatre

Reviewed on Tuesday 18th March 2014

Another of Noel Coward's masterpieces, Fallen Angels, is a hysterical comedy which remains incredibly witty and relatable, proving popular with audiences. Just days after seeing Blithe Spirit in the West End, it was fantastic to see another of Coward's plays featuring strong female leads driving the piece forward.

Jenny Seagrove and Sara Crowe star in this production as best friends Julia and Jane. The pair meet up while their husbands are away playing golf. When a mutual long ago French lover announces his intention to pay Julia and Jane an impromptu visit things become a little more exciting and the tension starts to build. Of course the best friends find themselves on the edge, going slightly hysterical each time the phone and doorbell rings. The pair hit the bottle, opening the lid on their jealousy... let's just say neither Julia nor Jane hold back.

As soon as the story is set up Fallen Angels is a dream to watch. As Julia and Jane become more and more drunk the play becomes more and more ridiculous. The silliness is fantastic fun and the balance between physical and verbal comedy is spot on. The second half is set the day after, the drama that unfolds as a result of the previous night’s antics is utterly priceless. The story is very simple but the audience loved it.

The chemistry between Jenny Seagrove and Sara Crowe is masterful. The pair have been perfectly cast and know exactly how to bounce off each other. The supporting cast are also strong. The design is hugely detailed and impressive, it couldn't be further from a cheap touring set - you would certainly expect to see something of the same standard in the West End.

Providing a classy, funny and highly entertaining evening, Fallen Angels is a classic delight.

Reviewed by Andrew Tomlins (Editor)

Fallen Angels runs at the Milton Keynes Theatre until Saturday 22nd March 2014.
Please visit www.kenwright.com for further information, tour dates and tickets.

Photo Credit: Darren Bell

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