A Window into Private Lives at Cronulla

During August and September, Arts Theatre Cronulla is presenting its latest production, Private Lives, a comedy written by Noël Coward, one of the most prominent dramatists of his era. It is considered one of Coward’s most brilliantly realised plays, characterised by his trademark witty dialogue.

Director Susan Geldart notes that although the play was written in 1930, it is a timeless exploration of marriage and relationships, proving that the dynamics of love haven’t changed in almost a hundred years.

Divorced couple Amanda and Elyot find themselves unwittingly reunited while on honeymoon with their new spouses Victor and Sybil. In France, in adjacent hotel rooms, they’re forced to confront their lingering feelings for each other. Under the cover of darkness, they escape and seek romantic refuge at Amanda’s flat in Paris. Despite their rekindled passion, old habits die hard, and the couple's bickering resumes. It’s clear that they cannot live with or without each other. When Victor and Sibyl arrive at the flat, all four confront their true feelings, encountering the complexities of love. 

Opening in London and boasting numerous successful Broadway runs, the play has been a favourite over the years, with audiences being taken on a delightful romp through the chaos of romantic entanglements. 

The production opens on Friday 2 August and runs till 7 September, 2024 on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm, with four Sunday matinees at 2pm.

Tickets are $33/$30 and can be booked online via the theatre’s website: 

https://www.artstheatrecronulla.com.au/

Cast

Elyot Chase: Alex Amditis

Sibyl Chase: Grace Johnson

Victor Prynne: Peter David Allison

Amanada Prynne: Lila Micevska

Louise: Narelle Jaeger/Kerry Turner

Photos by Dan Binger (horizontal images) and Mark Phillips (vertical image) - Port Hacking Camera Club