Coward’s comedy of manners a matter of taste

Don Fowler
Posted 7/24/14

Noel Coward wrote this comedy of manners based on his visits with an actual eccentric American family.

2nd Story Theatre’s Ed Shea has taken the comedy, speeded it up into three short acts in …

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Coward’s comedy of manners a matter of taste

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Noel Coward wrote this comedy of manners based on his visits with an actual eccentric American family.

2nd Story Theatre’s Ed Shea has taken the comedy, speeded it up into three short acts in under two hours, and is running it, using the same set, in repertory with Agatha Christie’s “And Then There Were None.”

Comedy is in the eyes and ears of the beholder. Joyce, and the majority of the audience on press night, loved it. I didn’t like the first act and thought I would be suffering through the next two.

We are first introduced to the Bliss children, Sorel and Simon (Rachel Nadeau and Patrick Mark Saunders). They are fast-talking, obnoxious, self-centered, spoiled brats, and they got on my nerves. Then we meet retired actress Judith Bliss, who is always performing, even while arguing with her kids. Husband David (John Michael Richardson) is a famous writer who eggs his wife on at every turn and then escapes to finish his book.

Usually, if I don’t like the beginning of a play, I won’t like the rest. But surprise, the arrival of four guests livens up the action, providing fodder for the Bliss family’s eccentricities. The four have been invited by different family members and are not sure why they have been invited for the weekend.

Their presence is an opportunity for Judith to “perform,” creating outrageous situations, emoting to the point of absurdity and even performing an uproarious dance. The four family members seem to be not only playing roles, but also playing with the heads of their guests.

Indiscreet passes are made at other family members’ guests, including one male member (rather risqué for Coward’s time). The guests are totally confused and exasperated, looking for an escape. And when they leave, the Bliss family carries on as if nothing has happened.

This is in-your-face, laugh-out-loud comedy. If that is your cup of tea you, like my wife, will love it. In spite of my hesitation, I did agree with her that Joanne Fayan took the role of Judith Bliss and made the faded actress come alive. It was the talented actress’s best role ever.

I was impressed with the casting. John Michael Richardson, who is usually the most outrageous character on stage, gives that privilege to Fayan, showing some restraint as her husband.

I won’t give away Amy Thompson’s age, but just say the woman who has played many younger roles shows a different character as the naïve, nervous spinster.

Ron Cesario’s costumes are as colorful and outrageous as the characters. The ensemble acting is at the usual 2nd Story high level.

If you like your comedy on the silly, speedy side, you’ll have a good time.

“Hay Fever” is performed in repertory with “And Then There Were None” through Aug. 31. Tickets are $30, $21 for those under 21. Call 247-4200 for reservations, or go online at www.2ndstorytheatre.com.

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