Star Quality

Synopsis

In his wickedly funny final play Noel Coward takes us behind the scenes of a new West End production. Conjuring up a wonderfully authentic backstage world of talent and treachery. Coward creates a gallery of unforgettable characters; temperamental leading lady, ruthless director, jaded old troupers and, caught somewhere between them all, innocent young playwright. From tentative first rehearsal to triumphant opening night, the clash of egos becomes increasingly and hilariously bloody. But what emerges from the mayhem is a startling evocation of that most elusive gift of all - star quality

Our Review:

Anne Morley-Priestman - 13 February 2012

This year’s revival of Christopher Luscombe’s adaptation of [Noël Coward]’s Star Quality in Joe Harmston’s production zips along at a faster rate than before. The performances by the original cast members are also sharper, with Anthony Houghton giving Tony a darker edge in his relationships with both Bob Saul’s bedazzled playwright Bryan and his boss-cum-lover Ray (Daniel Casey).

Taking centre stage – as of right – is the actress Lorraine Barrie, the exemplar of the star quality which is the backstage drama’s essence as well as its title. Lisa Goddard is excellent in the role, never playing for the audience’s sympathy – the character is in her fifties and needs all the artifice and mystique which show business affords to keep at the top of her game. The restaurant scene with Casey is incandescent as the inflated egos of leading lady and authoritarian director fire off each other.

The oth...

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