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Stage review: Private Lives with Nigel Havers and Patricia Hodge at Canterbury's Marlowe Theatre

Stunning set designs, saucy jokes and a star-studded cast have brought lots of laughter to Canterbury.

Private Lives is a classic comedy well worth a watch at the Marlowe Theatre.

Private Lives is the inaugural production of the Nigel Havers Theatre Company Picture: Tristram Kenton
Private Lives is the inaugural production of the Nigel Havers Theatre Company Picture: Tristram Kenton

The show tells the story of Elyot, Nigel Havers, and Amanda, Patricia Hodge, who were once married.

They find themselves in adjoining rooms in the same hotel on the French coast, both on honeymoon with their new partners.

Their initial horror quickly evaporates and soon they’re sharing cocktails and a romantic serenade.

The acting, humor, costumes and performance was brilliant fun and received well by the very full audience.

The duo, who are both household names, with accolades ranging from Olivier Awards to Coronation Street, were acting together for the very first time.

Patricia Hodge and Nigel Havers get up close and personal in Private Lives at the Marlowe Picture: Tristram Kenton
Patricia Hodge and Nigel Havers get up close and personal in Private Lives at the Marlowe Picture: Tristram Kenton

You wouldn't have known it, their chemistry was incredible and the audience really got a feel for their scandalous affair.

Even with one minor opening night mishap the show was great fun.

The relationship that was formed between the audience and actors made the comedy much more relatable.

The show is definitely aimed at a more mature audience, however, Noël Coward’s classic comedy is a good laugh for even those who haven't been married!

If you're looking for a light hearted, funny portrayal of married and divorced life, Private Lives is for you.

It may have been written in the 1930s but today's audiences will still find Private Lives clever and funny Picture: Tristram Kenton
It may have been written in the 1930s but today's audiences will still find Private Lives clever and funny Picture: Tristram Kenton

Private Lives will be at the Marlowe until Saturday, January 22.

Book tickets here or call 01227 787787.

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