Review by Marilyn Barber

Written nearly 100 years ago, my initial fears that this play by Noël Coward would seem too dated for modern audiences was soon dispelled, as director Richard Mullins had moved the timing forward to 1962.

The story revolves around two wives, who admit to each other that they had pre-marital sex – with the same Frenchman – and were contemplating cheating with him again on their present husbands.

A catfight ensues with some very lively performances by Victoria Porter as Julia and Kirsty Cox as Jane. The audience are privileged to witness acting of the highest calibre as tempers rise and alcohol begins to play its part. And there are laughs too.

As a foil to their bad behaviour, the servant Saunders (Hepzibah Roe) has numerous skills that she puts to brilliant effect with her nuanced comments and educated put downs.

Frederick (Neil James) and William (Al Wadlan) have smaller roles but still manage to be convincing as the husbands, each confused by their wife’s erratic behaviour.

Enter the smooth and sophisticated French lover Maurice (Mitch Capaldi) and the temperature rises.

Just as a postscript, in 1925, an official in The Lord Chamberlain’s office recommended that the licence for the play should be refused on the grounds of the loose morals of the two main female characters. The Lord Chamberlain over-ruled him saying that it was ’unreal farcical comedy’.

Fallen Angels is the third of the Players’ productions at the Tivoli – which runs until Saturday –and it really has to be seen.

Next week’s play is I have Been Here Before by J B Priestley, with the final production being Abigail’s Party.

Tickets from the Tivoli.