Lady Windermere’s Fan

One hundred and twenty two years on, is Oscar Wilde’s Lady Windermere’s Fan still relevant?

Yes, if you see the Hobart Repertory Theatre Society most recent production, under the direction of Allan Jeffrey. As a fine example of the Comedy of Manners genre, a witty, ironic form of drama that satirizes the manners and fashions of a particular social class or set, LWF shows that there are still hypocrisies in society. Gossiping is bullying, and we still have that.

The play was slick and well rehearsed, although there were some dropped lines, to be expected for opening night. Now that the cast has an idea of the likely audience reaction, they will be able to include laughter pauses.

Director Jeffrey concentrated on pace and action, rather than highlighting the fey campiness of Wilde dialogue, which does however demand good diction and voice projection.

Lady Windermere was delightfully portrayed by relative newcomer Jean Henderson, who looked the part and was a believably sweet, but narrow minded, wife. Jeff Michel, playing a straight role as her wimpy husband Lord Windermere, showed poise and his usual good timing. Leiz Moore cleverly portrayed smart, witty Mrs Erlynne, who knew how one little mistake can ruin a life. Audience sympathies were with the two women. Byron Rowan Smith played predatory Lord Darlington with elegance and just enough archness to make us almost like the cad. Parker the butler, a non-speaking part, was a gem role for Jon Lenthall, hilariously showing loyalty, disapproval and class consciousness. Newcomer Adelaide Reisz was a natural as the Duchess of Berwick, with good timing and very believable cattiness.

LWF was visually pleasing, with lovely costumes and bright colours, and an almost static but easily changed set. With minimal fuss the drawing room scenes of the Windermere’s grand home were changed for Lord Darlington’s flat. There was much to like about this well-mannered production, an example of good ensemble theatre. Wilde is still funny after all this time.

Merlene Abbott