Fallen Angels has had a limited run on Broadway, gracing the stage just twice since its U.S. debut in 1927. Written by Noël Coward, this play is a humorous take on societal norms. It features two women who, while their husbands are away, eagerly await a former lover. It was almost censored for its bold take on desire—a boldness that still resonates today.
Scott Ellis’s recent revival highlights the play’s relevance and humor. The chemistry between Oscar-nominated Rose Byrne and stage veteran Kelli O’Hara provides a refreshing blend of talent. Their performances are a rollercoaster of hilarity and drama, showcasing the complexities of female friendships amid marital boredom.
The play’s opening scene sets the tone. Julia, played by O’Hara, senses something amiss the morning her husband (Aasif Mandvi) departs for a golf trip. Over breakfast, filled with witty banter, she and Jane (Byrne) discuss a friend’s impending divorce. A postcard from a handsome ex throws them into a tizzy.
Coward cleverly explores the underlying tension of desire. Jane and Julia drink to mask their longing for excitement outside their seemingly perfect marriages. This desperate attempt contrasts sharply with their maid, played by Tracee Chimo, whose carefree attitude provides a stark counterpoint.
Ellis’s direction avoids overly modernizing the classic. Instead, he presents the play’s timeless elements straightforwardly, allowing its humor to shine without losing its essence.
O’Hara captivates as Julia, seamlessly weaving high-society language with physical comedy. She showcases versatility, making her performance genuinely memorable. Byrne, though she takes a moment to find her rhythm, excels after her character goes off the deep end with a few drinks. Her comedic timing is spot-on, especially when she quips in a half-intoxicated state.
David Rockwell’s opulent art deco set and the intricate costumes designed by Jeff Mahshie, along with the wig artistry by David Brian Brown and Victoria Tinsman, add layers of visual enchantment. The production stirs laughter and nostalgia, marrying humor with a rich historical backdrop.
Unlike today’s casual relationship dynamics, Coward’s play captures a moment in time when societal expectations weighed heavily on women. As our views on love and fidelity evolve, Fallen Angels remains a sharp and funny reflection on the age-old quest for desire and fulfillment.
If you want to check out more about this captivating production, consider reading The Guardian’s review of Fallen Angels.
