The Philadelphia Story – A Lux Radio Production

The Philadelphia Story – A Lux Radio Production
Written by Philip Barry. Directed by Sharon White. New Farm Nash Theatre. 24 February – 18 March, 2017.

This production is as it was first performed in 1942 at the Victory Theatre by the United States Government as part of their war effort. It had in the cast such famous people as Kathryn Hepburn, Cary Grant and Jimmy Stewart from the original film and it was a great success. It later was made into the musical,  High Society, with Grace Kelly.

Initially the audience had to adjust to the cast being on stage reading the scripts. Not your usual play, really. The story centres round Tracy Lord, a wealthy socialite, her divorced husband and her family just prior to her intended marriage to her next husband to be, a nouveau rich businessman with political ambitions. Throw in a tabloid reporter and a photographer and the possibilities are endless.  The snappy dialogue and witty repartee kept the audience enthralled for most of the performance. Many would have closed their eyes at some time to just list to the radio play as they did so many years ago.

Jane Hamer, as Tracey Lord, was the crucial pivot of the play and she carried it off well, particularly after the first act. Actually everyone was a little flat initially but lifted to a very high standard after the break. All the performers had voices very suitable for their characters with Nathaniel Young and Steve Tonks standing out in the larger roles. Susie Williams was the onstage sound person responsible for the essential effects. The musical director and pianist Stuart Crisp rounded off a good balanced production.

Nash Theatre has created an expertise in “Radio Plays” over the years and has maintained their standard.

Bill Davies

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