Waiting in the Wings

When Noël Coward wrote Waiting in the Wings, his 50th play, he claims to have done so lovingly, with regard and belief in his characters. Its Dublin premiere in 1960 was well received by audiences and critics, but the London Premiere was panned by critics. Although London audiences may have liked it, it was the critics and mass-circulation papers that were responsible for Waiting in the Wings not being a financial success. Five decades on, it is receiving praise, and performance, yet again. The promotion says: “All the world’s a stage….even in retirement!” Hobart Repertory Theatre Society presented Waiting in the Wings, directed by Chris Hamley, and the Hobart opening night audience appreciated the play.

The Wings is a charity home for retired actresses, where “former stage stars await their final curtain call with good humour, grumbles and grace. When a new resident arrives, old friendships and rivalries are rekindled." Even if you don’t like Noël Coward, this play may resonate with you, particularly if you are reaching that age yourself, or if you have dealings with someone who “is of that age.”

Coward also wrote the play for actresses as an ensemble piece, and that’s its strength. Hobart Repertory excels at ensemble. Although there were some line stumbles, and the usual uneven-ness of skill, this cast of fine actors and friends relished the play and their part in its successful performance. Three acts with two intervals makes for a long night. Good entertainment and good fun are the rewards, and the chance to appreciate ensemble theatre. It’s hard to pick standouts, although Noreen Le Mottee (Deidre O’Malley) gave an excellent, assured performance. Gillian Hunt (Lotta Bainbridge) and Pip Tyrell (May Davenport) were convincingly antagonistic then tender friends, and Deidre McMaster delightfully overacted her dementia scenes as fading ingénue (Sarita Myrtle) with convincing reality, excellent humour and perfect timing.

Chris Hamley directed with sensitivity and respect for the play and actors. With a wonderful set, excellent costumes, well designed and executed sound and technical input, this was enjoyable, touching entertainment. One comment on projection. As one of the characters said: “they don’t know how to project these days.” Unless of course, my hearing is getting old!  Go see Waiting in the Wings while your senses still allow you to appreciate a fun night out.

Merlene Abbott 

Photographer: Wayne Wagg