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:

John Dixon - 25 October 2011

Noel Coward wrote a short story in 1951 and an unproduced play in 1967, both of which were called Star QualityNow, Christopher Luscombe has adapted these in to the play, Star Quality., starring Amanda Donohoe.

With all the action being set in 1951, when smoking was common place, there is plenty of opportunity for the cast reach for the cigarettes, especially in the first act. Which in today’s climate certainly helps date the piece and it is different nowadays to have the smell of smoke drifting across the footlights.

The story centres on Bryan Snow (Bob Saul) who has written a play called Dark Heritage. With the play about to be produced, we follow him meeting his leading lady, Lorraine Barrie (Donohue), attending the first read through, being pressurised to change the ending and cope with both the dress rehearsal and opening night. All the while we witness backstage tantrums between the cast, as well as, the constant battle of wills between Barrie and her ...

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