Noel Coward’s ‘Private Lives’, written in 1930, has long been considered his most seminal work; Amanda and Elyot, once married to each other, find they are in adjoining suites with their new spouses whilst on honeymoon. The spark of their love is rekindled and they run off together, abandoning their new partners….

Andrew Beckett’s production is crisp, slick and highly entertaining. The cast whiz through the peppery dialogue with clarity and perfect diction providing plenty of laughs along the way.

Claire Amias appears to have played the role of Amanda many times so perfectly does she inhabit the role; the silvery laugh, the coquettish turn of the head, the look that kills – she is utterly joyful to watch. For a great Amanda you need a great Elyot and Steve Blacker-Barrowman is ideal; suave, devious and sharp – the two match each other blow for blow as they bicker and fight, make-up and then bicker all over again.

Matching the leading roles are those of the spurned spouses. Holly Ashman is completely delightful as the young Sibyl; her switch between excited bride and tantrum-throwing ingenue is hilarious. Charlie Bryant is a wonderful physical actor and as the awkward, slightly dim, Victor, he offers a cracking portrayal of a man full of pent-up anger and frustration – it is very, very funny to watch.

In the tiny role of the housemaid Louise, Bridget Lambert provides a comic gem of a performance.

Andrew Beckett directs with precision and flair and with an eye to get the most out of any available comedy. Beckett, is, once again, responsible for the set designs which are sumptuous and classy. Added to this are some stunning costume designs from Jan Huckle; Amanda’s golden evening gown is particularly eye-catching, but all capture the period, atmosphere and characters to a tee.

Coward added to the play the song ‘Someday I’ll Find You’ which adds a wonderful underscoring to a production which feels so authentic. 

What is the play about? It’s a love story at its simplest and most obvious level. It may be about something more, but most will recognise the ups and downs of a relationship whilst watching Amanda and Elyot even if they don’t indulge in fights with cushions.

This is a classy production of the highest order and the whole company brings it off in masterly fashion.

‘Private Lives’ runs until 16 September. Next week, the last play of the 2023 Season, Patrick Barlow’s hilarious version of John Buchan’s ‘The 39 Steps’. Tickets can be bought online at www.manorpavilion.com