What relevance could a play written 130 years ago possibly have today? But then, that is the magic of Oscar Wilde, giving us themes that stay relevant through the ages, food for thought for days. When Lady Markby remarked that society has become over-populated and that “someone should arrange a proper scheme of assisted emigration”, it certainly hit a nerve and prompted a few uncomfortable chuckles in the audience.
Directed by Patrick Brione, the Carlton Theatre Group’s production of An Ideal Husband is rich in talent and rides the waves of wit and melodrama with flair. Sir Robert Chiltern’s perfect life hangs in the balance as the scheming Mrs Cheveley threatens him with social and political ruin. She blackmails him with a letter from his past in order to force his support for a canal project in Argentina. Lady Chiltern holds her husband to the highest ideals and principles and is devasted at the thought that he did something in the past that is not in keeping with those high morals. Helping them through the mire with words and action is Sir Robert’s dear friend, Lord Goring.
The play celebrates the greys in the way Sir Robert defends his folly as a way of making a life for himself, in the way Mrs Cheveley alludes to playing the game of life, and in the conflict between ambition and morality.
Philippa Jones was outstanding as the conniving Mrs Cheveley, playing her glamour and audaciousness with great style. Josh Mallalieu seemed quite at home as Lord Goring, going from dandy to suitor to helpful friend with ease. In the short time that she had on stage, Georgina Macfarlane delighted as Lady Markby, complete with fun little hats and great comic timing. In comparison, Joe Dillon appeared stiff in his portrayal of Sir Robert, and came across as nervous rather than tortured as the character is meant to be.
The stage setting as cosy drawing rooms was further aided by the fact that the venue was a small one, making it an intimate theatre experience. A bonus point for having a picture of Wilde gazing at the audience in Act III.
While watching the play, it was impossible not to wonder why some of its ideas have remained evergreen – has the world really changed so little from the late 19th century to the 21st? Why is immigration still a hot topic, will corruption in politics never go away, why are women still thought of as being primarily interested in bonnets (or their modern-day equivalents) before anything else?
Reviewer: Savitha Venugopal
Reviewed: 18th May 2024
North West End UK Rating: