Review: Fallen Angels – at the Festival Theatre, Malvern, from Monday, September 2, until Saturday, September 7, 2013.

HINTS of what was to come, the ladette culture of today, seem to have been provided in this1925 offering from Noel Coward.

When it was first performed – almost 90 years ago – the theatre critics of the day were scathingly scornful. They said it was ‘vulgar, disgusting, outrageous, shocking, nauseating, obscene and degenerate’. But all that did was to ensure it was a box office success as the crowds poured in to see for themselves what the furore was all about.

Witness now what see at first hand on our streets, as well as at the cinema, on our television screens and read about in our newspapers and on computer gadgetry, and it’s ever so tame by today’s standards.

This tale of two society ladies – described at the time by the Daily Express as playing ‘suburban sluts’ – is a clever mixture of romp and the light comedy Coward initially intended.

Our married ‘gels’ – Julia and Jane, played with great enthusiasm and a real sense of fun by Jenny Seagrove and Sara Crowe – are so smitten, yet nervous, about meeting an old flame and possibly embarking on an illicit liaison that all their airs and graces fall to the ground as often as they do.

Based on friendships-cum-relationships we have Julia and Jane for once at odds with each other over the prospect of meeting the lover they shared 12 years before, but standing firm over hubbies Fred (Daniel Sterroll) and Robin Sebastian (Willy) who they feel take them for granted and where in wedlock passion has diminished.

While they wait, they drink! But the bubbles in the champagne bring a sense of rivalry bubbling to the surface and with each empty glass bottoms up takes on a new meaning as our lust hungry pair fall over various items of furniture.

It’s akin to the disgraceful behaviour that is all too common in many of our town and city centres these days but without the threatening aggression. Thankfully this is only acting and not the real thing. That said, they do it remarkably well, with great timing and it ensures an enjoyable romp.

Seagrove is splendid. Her acrobatics see her tumble and slide over a sofa, but it was Crowe, an old hand at comedy – with her delightful delivery and expressions - who really shines.

The wit lacks some of the usual Coward punch but is still effective, and director Roy Marsden ensures there is a good measured pace to the proceedings. However, it could have done without two short 12 minute intervals and perhaps run through unchecked.

It’s a stylish production with a bonus performance from Gillian McCafferty. She is Julia’s know-it-all maid, Saunders, and adds much to the entertainment with her knowledge and incredible abilities, while the mischievous twinkle from lover Maurice (Phillip Battley) provides some late crossed wires and a clever twist.

This is the first time for 10 years that Fallen Angels has been revived and while it won’t exactly have the box office under siege it will still be worth the effort if only to see two of our more talented actresses playing hugely amusing and credible drunks AJW