The Constant Wife

The Lowry
17th to 21st March

*** Kara Tointon is a CONSTANT delight ***

*** A witty dynamic retelling ***

*** A delightful play with a superb heroine ***

This is a comedy of manners originally written by the playwright W Somerset Maugham in 1926. The play is half Oscar Wilde half Noel Coward with plenty of laughs. Laura Wade has adapted this original play and produced a witty dynamic retelling. Having recently co-written the adaptation of Jilly Coopers ‘Rivals’ for the small screen, she brings the 1920’s slap bang up to date. This production feels fresh and relevant without losing its original vib.

The plot is set around Constance Middleton who discovers her husband of 15years is having an affair with her best friend, but what will she decide to do? Kara Tointon is a constant delight and gives a dazzling portrayal of Constance Middleton, an independent woman fully in control of her own destiny. The audience felt safe in Kara’s hands as we follow her a journey of self-discovery and growth. She gives a balanced effortless delivery of the character with a calm measured manner. She remains in control throughout yet silently coiled, leaving the audience wondering what she will do next and how she might strike.

Amy Vicary-Smith plays a very spirited Martha Culver who is Constance’s sister. We adored Amy’s energy in her part. Martha is just as independent as Constance but much more impulsive. As the story unfolds Martha gives Constance the opportunity of working in partnership with her as an interior designer. This enables her to be financially independent and the power to direct her own destiny.

John Middleton, played by Tim Delap is the Harley Street surgeon and unfaithful husband. We see how his characters does a full 180 and Tim makes us feel all the under currents of his character.

Sara Crowe plays a wonderful Mrs Culver who is Constance mother. She believes men should be allowed to have affairs and make mistakes and that such things should be kept quiet. Sara is a stalwart of the stage and screen and it is always a delight to see her.

The vocal volleys between the characters are overflowing with clever witty dialogue. There weren’t more than a few moments when we weren’t laughing and tittering. The background jazz soundtrack helps to transport us back to the era which was composed by Jamie Culum. This soundtrack was always present and helped to indicate a scene change. Anna Fleischle has created sumptuous sets. The moving elements during the scene transitions occasional needed an extra whack when they didn’t quite complete their move. Anna has also made the most beautiful costumes that look like they have just walked off a Parisian runway of Givenchy or Dior.

A delightful play with a superb heroine, who creates an equal ballpark but plays to win. With Kara Tointon dazzling portrayal of Constance Middleton’s and her feminist awaking, this is a must see this Spring. Showing now at The Lowry until 21st March.

https://thelowry.com/whats-on/the-constant-wife-z8n4