The Philadelphia Story

Synopsis

A romantic comedy which proved a Broadway hit in 1939. The play finds the young aristocrat, on the verge of her second marriage to George Kittredge, a wealthy businessman, having serious doubts when ex-husband Dexter appears on the scene.

Our Review:

11 May 2005

NOTE: From 20 June to 6 August 2005 the role of CK Dexter Haven will be played by Adrian Lukis. Lukis is relaxed and charming in the role as the ex-husband, who clearly still has feelings for his former wife. But there is not as much chemistry between him and Jennifer Ehle (with whom he co-starred in the critically acclaimed TV adaptation of Pride and Prejudice) as one would have expected.

Anyone who hasn’t seen the 1940 film version of The Philadelphia Story (or Cole Porter’s 1956 musical of the story, High Society) is likely to be disappointed in this new production of the stage original; anyone who has seen the film, is likely to be bitterly disappointed.

Philip Barry wrote the 1939 Broadway comedy, about a spoilt heiress who learns some harsh lessons in tolerance on her wedding day, as a vehicle for Katharine Hepburn, who drove it all the way to Hollywood, reprising her role as Tracy...

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Latest User Review

152.163.100.204) - 3 September 2005:

I was really glad that I got to see this production before it ended! I don't understand the mixed reviews. Granting the plotline is somewhat dated but I think it still is a very funny and well made production. Kevin Spacey is charming and witty. Julia Mckenzie is a gem. Nicholas LeProvost is hilarious but most of all Jennifer Ehle is mesmerizing! She journeys from a virgin goddess to humanity with such pathos and vulnerability....very enthralling! It ends tomorrow Sept 2...try to catch it!...

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