Private Lives
by Noel Coward
directed by Andrew Barnicle
Laguna Playhouse, Laguna Beach
through April 10
Noel Coward's timeless wit is as pleasing as watercrest sandwiches or scones and butter. It's irresistible, especially in his now classic Private Lives and works to perfection when properly cast. In the new revival at Laguna Playhouse, Andrew Barnicle has assembled a glorious ensemble, one that knows how to bring out Coward's subtleties with panache, a somewhat rare quality for an American troupe.
In the 1930s Coward was quite courageous to put forth such wildly flambuoyant characters as Elyot (Joseph Fuqua) and Amanda (Julie Granata). His frivolous attitude toward divorce and adultery as told through their eyes was hardly commonplace, a far cry from the loose morality of today. Cowardesque wit and flair helped audience digest character flaws and accept Elyot and Amanda more readily. In any case, Coward himself as a homosexual took a rather perverted view of the marriage game, exposing spousal abuse openly and frankly. Either accept the possible negative aspects of what you are getting yourself into, or stay clear of it altogether...and that, he did. On the other hand, it is wise to see that being together is not a consistent bed of roses, and many diehard happily marrieds applaud the naughty diversions as a natural part of the bargain. The fights certainly highten the sexual entanglements that follow.
Laguna's ensemble is divine, with Fuqua and Granata sublime in every way. Fuqua was always meant to play this role of Elyot, the man/child flippant egocentric who must have things as he pleases or not at all. "Some women should be struck regularly like gongs" is one of my favorite lines, and uttered by Fuqua in character it sounds as natural as rain. Granata is also deliciously wicked and undependable as Amanda. Both actors play off each other superbly. On opening night Fuqua slipped and fell, picking himself up beautifully with "I only had one!" It was a great cover that only a consummate pro could carry off. His Elyot never left him. Matthew Floyd Miller as Victor and Winslow Corbett as Sybil are wonderfully and annoyingly loyal - just the opposite of Elyot and Amanda - and fit their parts to a tee. Julia Etedi is utterly hilarious in her brief appearance in Act III as the disgusted maid. Barnicle's pacing is just right throughout and the action never drags for a split second. The Act II verbal sparring builds to a crescendo and the ensuing physical fights are tightly choreographed.
Bruce Goodrich has designed an elegant set of Amanda's flat in Paris, and the first act adjoining hotel room balconies on the French Riviera offer a nice tease to the plush interior to come. Julie Keen's costumes are wonderfully luscious particularly Amanda's stunning black evening gown in Act I.
If you like your wit lyrical and lilting, look no further than to this elegant production of Private Lives. It's a treat on every level. Hopefully, it will play at the Rubicon Theatre in Ventura, but not until the end of next season, so take the scenic drive to Laguna and see it now!
