Honeymoons and rendezvous will transport audiences of a comedy classic to 20th century France this month.
Private Lives written by one of Britain’s best-loved playwrights will be performed on the stage of a Sonning theatre.
The three act comedy- which was premiered at London’s Phoenix Theatre in 1930 – follows the lives of a divorced couple reunited while honeymooning with their new partners.
And under the direction of actor Tam Williams, the play will continue to fascinate audiences with its quick wit and beguiling charm in an appearance at The Mill this summer.
The production is the second that Mr Williams has directed at the dinner theatre, following his successful rendition of Noël Coward’s Blithe Spirit in 2016.
From a deep-rooted theatrical background- with productions such as West End’s Chariots of Fire on his résumé – the creative says he is privileged to direct the play and very envious of the cast’s opportunity.
During a break in rehearsals for Private lives, he said: “Noël Coward is one of the great writers who deserves more credit than he is given.
“Although the play was first performed almost 100 years ago, the plot and script have remained untouched.”
Tam’s interest in the arts also stems from the talents of his father Simon Williams, whom he directed in the stage version of Chariots of Fire, and great grandmother Celia Johnson who are famed for their lasting impressions on the industry.
Private Lives is a montage of theatrical styles: performed as a sequence of restoration, Chekhov, and farce comedy.
The piece opens in Brittany on the balconies of two honeymoon suites, and takes viewers on a quest to the tempting city of Paris where divorcees Elyot and Amanda elope.
The director said: “This play explores the toxic relationships of people who can neither live with each other, or without each other.
“There is a lot of ugliness in the piece which sprouts from the viciousness of the scenes, however there are some beautiful personalities beyond the surface.”
“Private Lives highlights how many of us are out of the spotlight. The couples have annoying ticks and are childish at times, but the play acts as a reminder that not everyone can be compatible.
“Performing this play in 2019 will allow the comedy to be seen in a new light.”
Staged against the faultless backdrop of Michael Holt’s set, Private Lives promises a glamorous evening of theatre for its guests.
And if The Mill’s signature pre-show meal and idyllic surroundings aren’t enough to satisfy viewers themselves, the play’s sensuous storyline promises a humorous night to remember.
Mr Williams added: “Audience members will relate to the content. They should feel moved but free to laugh at any time.
“This is the type of play you can watch over and over again.”
Pictures by Andreas Lambis.Private Lives will be performed at The Mill at Sonning from Thursday, June 20 until August 3. Evening shows run from Tuesday to Saturday, with Thursday and Saturday matinees every week, and Sunday matinees from June 30-July 28.
Tickets start at £51, which include a two-course meal in the restaurant before the show.
To book log on to www.millatsonning.com or call the Box Office on 0118 969 8000.
