Reviewed by Debbie Lowndes
My friend and I, both in our forties, visited Derby Theatre to watch Private Lives. To be honest we were unsure what to expect from the evening. Anyway, it is a story set in the 1930’s and an example of art. The play was about two couples, therefore had four characters mainly on stage throughout. However, a maid appeared for part of the play. I guess the story revolves around a cowardly act about two people who cannot live together, nor can they live apart. The play is simple with simple staging and decor. The whole play centred around the four characters who played and acted in the most pristine manner.
The play started with a setting of two balconies. First one couple appeared on their balcony in love having just been married, celebrating their honeymoon. Elyot the male of the couple is questioned by his new wife about his relationship with his ex-wife Amanda. Anyway, the conversation gets a little heated and the wife leaves Elyot on the balcony as she leaves disgruntled to get something to eat within the hotel. The story moves to them to the balcony of the neighbouring room. You would not believe that the room next door is Elyot’s ex-wife, Amanda, and her newly married husband, again who are on honeymoon. Basically, they also have a disagreement about Amanda’s ex-husband and the male leaves heading for the bar. Basically, Elyot and free-spirited Amanda meet again on the balconies. It is not long until they are reminiscing and once again in each other’s arms. They soon elope together to France to rekindle their love.
After spending three day and nights together they realise their love for one still strong. However, it is not long before they bicker once more. They then start to get aggressive, striking out at one another violently. You would not get away beating your wife like this within today’s society. It gets to the point where they are not speaking. The partners they ditched (when they eloped) turn up. These partners believe it or not reunite Elyot and Amanda. They themselves after bickering also end up as a couple. I guess in today’s society you would class with as maybe wife swap.
The theatre is easy to find surrounded by nearby parking, reasonable priced at just £2 for the evening. Drinks were reasonably priced, and staff were most helpful and welcoming.
Noël Coward’s Private Lives was interesting, witty and thoroughly enjoyable. Definitely worth a visit for something different and entertaining.
Rating: 5/5
Tickets cost from £15.50 to £26.50 (booking fees may apply).
Private Lives is at the Derby Theatre from 30 January to 3 February 2018, for more information or book tickets visit www.derbytheatre.co.uk or call the box office on 01332 593939.
Derby Theatre, 15 Theatre Walk, St Peter’s Quarter, Derby, DE1 2NF | 01332 593939
