Hay Fever

The music which preceded the show set the scene for what was to follow – that nostalgic mood of the Noel Coward era created by that iconic singing voice of his.  When lights came up, the set was clearly of the art deco period with nice touches with pictures props and furniture.    The piece opened with the Bliss siblings giving us a taste of what was to come – rudeness, snobbishness and self-importance.  Simon, who was impressively over the top, commanded the stage with his overacting and this was in contrast to Sorel who was much more subdued to the extent that her diction was lost at times.  The parents, Judith & David were equally good at displaying bad manners and a complete disregard for their guests.  They showed a difference in their styles but this kept their dialogue alive and interesting.  The guests, some of whom just didn’t know how to react to their hosts’ rudeness, played their parts well, again showing individual characteristics which they maintained throughout.  Clara, the maid, (previously a theatrical dresser) was a cross between Mrs Overall and Mrs Danvers and one could not take one’s eyes off her when she was onstage.   The staging of the piece was very well done and lighting and costumes all added to the success of the play.

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