The Torch Theatre always put on an autumn production which is not to be missed and this year is no exception. From Wednesday 4th October, Noël Coward’s “Private Lives” will run in Milford Haven, Pembrokeshire. Read on to find out more:
Noël Coward’s “Private Lives”
Torch Theatre Productions are thrilled to bring you Private Lives.
“There isn’t a particle of you that I don’t know, remember, and want.”
Amanda and Elyot are on honeymoon – with other people. But that won’t keep them apart.
Five years since their last meeting the spark is stronger than ever, but there’s no spark without fire.
Celebrating 125 years of Noël Coward this explosive dark comedy promises a side-splitting night out that will have you laughing until you cry.
Content Advisories
Private Lives contains strong language and use of derogatory terms, including racist, colonial and misogynistic attitudes.
There are references to divorce and stillbirth.
There are scenes of intimacy, alcohol consumption, adultery, sexual coercion, verbal and physical abuse throughout.
The Cast of Private Lives at the Torch Theatre
Former Aberystwyth student Claire Cage will play Amanda. Her television credits include Coronation Street, Sherlock and Emmerdale. She has worked with National Theatre Wales and took part in Re-Live’s play ‘Belonging’ in conjunction with the Torch Theatre so she will be a familiar face to some.
Jude Deeno (Alice In Wonderland, directed by Paul Elsam and Family Album, Stephen Joseph Theatre, directed by Sir Alan Ayckbourn) plays Victor. Jude has previously worked with Torch Theatre’s Artistic Director Chelsey Gillard at Coventry University in Scarborough where he worked with her during his training and is “absolutely delighted” to be working with her again for the first time in his professional career.
Making her Torch debut as Sybil, actor and writer Paisley Jackson from south Wales, winner of The Laurence Olivier Bursary, has recently graduated from The Sherman Theatre Writers Group, The Royal Court Introduction to Playwrighting Group and BBC Welsh Voices. She has worked with companies such as Dirty Protest and National Theatre Wales.
The fourth, and final actor is Francois Pandolfo as Elyot. Having appeared in Eastenders, Casualty and Doctor Who, he also has a wealth of experience on stage, appearing in Wuthering Heights (Aberystwyth Arts Centre), Double Vision (Wales Millennium Centre/Gagglebabble) and The Magic Flute (Welsh National Opera).
Set and Costume Design
Travel back to the 1930s. Designed by Kevin Jenkins, the decadent set and glamorous costumes look amazing. See a glimpse of the vintage costume designs in our last post: “1930s Inspired Autumn Fashion“.
Make a Night of It
“Our aim is to give people a great night out – we are even hosting themed lunches with live songs from the era for those keen for some added glamour.
“We would love to see audiences dressed up in 1930s costume ready to sip their martini and be immersed in designer Kevin Jenkins’ spectacular art deco set – it’s going to wow audiences and transport us all to a most decadent era – perfect escapism from a gloomy autumn day!”.
Artistic Director, Chelsey Gillard’
Private Lives at the Torch Theatre
Private Lives at the Torch Theatre at the Torch Theatre runs for three weeks, Milford Haven, opening on Wednesday 4th October (press night Thursday 5th) until Saturday 21st October and is proud to be part of the Coward Foundation’s COWARD125 Festival, a two-year celebration of Noël Coward’s extraordinary life in the lead-up to Coward’s 125th birthday in 2024.
Tickets
SHOWING FROM
WED 04 OCT – SAT 21 OCT 2023
PRICE: £23.00 | £20.00 CONS | £10.00 UNDER 26 – 25% off for members*
Preview Performance – 4th October
BSL Performance – 10th October (Interpretation by Liz May)
*up to 4 tickets per member
To book tickets, visit the Torch Theatre Box Office or call or visit the Box Office on 01646 695267.
Will you be watching Private Lives?
Blogtober 2023
Today is day 3 of Blogtober. I’ve swayed from the prompt of an autumn book review to a preview of an autumn play instead (review coming soon).
This looks so interesting!
Author
I’m excited to see it! xxx
This sounds like a great show and the set looks amazing. x
Author
Yes, they’ve done a good job xx
I have not heard of this play. In some ways I would want to see it in other ways not sure I would watch it. Will be interesting to see your thoughts
Author
I know what you mean. It’s not a play I’d seek out, but always love the autumn productions so hopefully this will be the same xxx
Looking forward to visiting the Torch and enjoying this production. The torch needs all the support it can get
Author
Oh lovely. We’re going Thursday. Enjoy xxx