Fallen Angels at the Menier Chocolate Factory*****

When Fallen Angels was last performed, 25 years ago, I remember interviewing the leading ladies – both big names – but their performances didn’t stay with me.

This production, however, I will most certainly remember. Under Christopher Luscombe’s meticulous direction, Noel Coward’s biting wit comes to life in a joyous two hours of hilarity when two well-to-do women descend to the depths of jealousy, drunkenness and lust as they, and we the audience, hold our breaths in anticipation, wondering whether their former French lover, Maurice, will eventually make an appearance.

Janie Dee and Alexandra Gilbreath positively sparkle as the women who, learning that their old lover is in town, run the gamut of emotions, taking us with them on a riproaring journey from fear and guilt to excitement and unfettered longing. It’s a joy to watch the rapport between these two seasoned actors bringing their characters to life in fast moving, stylish performances with impeccable comic timing. Dee is the epitome of haughtiness as Julia, while Gilbreath’s Jane shows a wicked sense of humour from the outset, and there is also an added bonus when Dee sings, accompanying herself on the piano.

Dee and Gilbreath are not the only stars of this show, however. Although Fallen Angels was written 100 years ago the sterling cast brings to life the characters as if they were alive today against Simon Higlett’s classy set and in Fotini Dimou’s quality costumes.

Sarah Twomey, in particular, stands out in a part with which she can and does have a lot of fun. In fact, she steals every scene as Saunders, the maid who has seen and done everything and doesn’t hold back telling her employers. And so to the husbands, Fred and Bill who, in the capable hands of Richard Teverson and Christopher Hollis, complement their wives perfectly. As for Maurice, does he ever appear? If he does, Graham Vick would not disappoint!

Coward was only 23 when he wrote this astute study of human behaviour at the time. But surprisingly, especially today, this comedy about pre-marital sex and drunken women was banned in places including Amsterdam. What a treat that, today, we are allowed to see it performed! It’s a Champagne corker!

Image: Manuel Harlan

Fallen Angels is at the Menier Chocolate Factory until February 21.

menierchocolatefactory.com

Box office: 020 7378 1713