Star Quality

Noël Coward’s last play, Star Quality, is perhaps one of his less frequently performed plays, and has been presented with quality at the Garrick Theatre.

Seven distinct locales in 1951 London, Kent and Manchester were nicely created on Garrick’s handkerchief sized stage, by James Nailen and Fred Petersen, with wardrobe by Grainne Friel and cast, and hair by Lynda Stubbs, nicely reflecting the era.

Star Quality centres around the production of the play Dark Heritage, and especially the story of its author Bryan Snow, and leading lady Lorraine Barrie - a woman with star quality. The author was very nicely played by Alan Gill, in a strong performance that anchored the show well. Kath Jones was a worthy leading lady, shining brightly as Lorraine Barrie, with a lovely diva quality.

In smaller roles, Susan Meikle brought warm humour and a lovely interpretation to the role of actress Marion Blake, while Chris Kennedy was cleverly campy as flamboyant Tony Orford. Marsha Holt gave humanity to the role of assistant Nora Marshall, with support from Alan Morris as director Ray Malcolm, Alan Shaw as Gerald Wentworth and Ben Loather as Eric Larch.

Three performers served as crew, both in the play, and the play within the play, with swift and elegant scene changes throughout, made by Caleb Hombergen-Crute (Harry), Christine Offringa (Beryl) and Kathleen Nyland (Laura), under the supervision of stage manager Grainne Friel.

Special mention should be made of the cast member who took the last bow. Gorgeous canine star Daisy (who shared the role with her friend Monty), was a delight as Lorraine’s dog Bothwell.

Star Quality is a rarely performed Noël Coward play, and this rendition was nicely presented and well received. Well done to all involved.

Kimberley Shaw