Private Lives by Noel Coward September 15-20, 2003

A CLASSIC comedy is the choice to open Newport Playgoers' celebration 80th season at the Dolman Theatre in Newport's city centre.

The sophisticated and witty Private Lives, by Noel Coward, should provide just the right start to a season bursting with excellent drama, performed by a talented company of amateurs whose reputation is known and admired throughout the UK.

Private Lives is as funny today as it was when it first opened in London in 1930, produced by Coward, who also played the sophisticated Elyot, and with a cast that also included Gertrude Lawrence and Lawrence Olivier.

Still entertaining audiences in London's West End and on tour throughout Britain, the play takes a wry look at the relationship between Amanda, played for Playgoers by the experienced Eileen Symonds, and Elyot, who, following a tempestuous marriage ending in divorce, find themselves honeymooning with their second partners in adjacent hotel suites.

Directing Private Lives is a dream come true for Playgoers' Desrae Tucker.

The actress and director took the lead role of Amanda in a charity performance some ten years ago.

"I consider that to be the most enjoyable part I've ever played," said Desrae.

"I think the whole play is such fun, and I love the unconventional underlying attitudes of the characters. The relationship between Amanda and Elyot is fascinating and great fun to explore.

"The whole play is very funny and there are some absolutely wonderful lines. Everyone is thoroughly enjoying the rehearsals, and we hope it's going to be a great production."

Private Lives will introduce three new actors to the Playgoers' stage. Rhian Smith (Sibyl) is no stranger to the Dolman, having taken many lead roles in musical productions, but this is her first dramatic role, and it is a first, too, for Antoinette Partridge-Smith, who plays the French-speaking hotel maid.

"It's been a real challenge for Antoinette, as she doesn't speak any French," Desrae laughed. "She's been working really hard."

Antoinette has been expertly coached in the language by French-speakers, including the third newcomer to the cast, Steve Drowley (Elyot), who is an experienced actor new to the area and who spent some time living in France.

Private Lives is at the Dolman Theatre, Kingsway, from September 15 to 20.

Performances start at 7.15pm except on Fridays, when they begin at 7.30pm.

Tickets: £7.50 Tuesday to Saturday Monday: Adults £6 OAP £5 Students all week: £5 Available from the visitor centre, Newport Library, John Frost Square, or from the box office at the theatre on the night.