Design for Living

This once controversial, and even banned, play by Noël Coward, is a delightful time capsule of upper class life in the 1930s. Still funny and cleverly penned, it is playing to capacity audiences at the Old Mill Theatre.

Central character Gilda, in love with both Otto and Leo (also very fond of each other), is gorgeously played by Nyree Hughes. Elegant and sophisticated, she owns the stage, in a  clever, sophisticated, performance. She is also the most exquisitely attired in this fabulously costumed production - with costumes by Jennifer Prosser (assisted by Dinah Zaikos, Nyree Hughes and Jeffrey Watkins).

Jeffrey Watkins may well have been born to play Noel Coward. A lovely performance as Otto, that is nuanced, clever and cosmopolitan. The third party in this love triangle is Leo. Played by Garry Davies, a late-in-rehearsal replacement, he belies his shortened preparation time and works well as the third corner of the relationship.

Excellent support from ‘old friend’ Ernest, very earnestly and genuinely played by Neale Paterson. Julie Holmshaw is an audience favourite in two very different and beautifully presented roles. Charlie Young is strong as both Mr Birbeck and Henry Carver. Praveen Hooda makes the most of his brief appearance as Valet Matthew, and Rebecca Calwell is lovely in her post 10.15pm appearance.

The set for Design for Living is design delight. Constructed by Greg Aylmer, we see three very different rooms created; All are finished superbly, with distinct and polished ambience. Sheila Wileman has excelled with decor and properties and John Woolrych’s lighting design is ambient and appropriate. Sound is also strong, featuring recordings by Justin Freind and operated by Nina Doherty.

A lovely nostalgic night at the theatre, with some very clever direction and performances.

Kimberley Shaw

Photographer: Linda Hewell