Going Wilde in the aisles
An Ideal Husband
The Old Fire Station, 15-19 November, 7.30pm
Production: 3/5
Cast: 5/5
Direction: 3/5
“Decadent” is perhaps the best word to describe this production of Wilde’s classic satire on politics, society and morality. Director, Keaton McGruder is clearly determined to recreate the lavish settings of the 1890s, and both the sets and the costumes are impressively extravagant with excellent attention to detail.
I have some doubts as to how the complete scene changes between acts will work in practice but the finished product will be well worth it, McGruder takes a bold step in choosing to set the play in the 1890s rather than the more conservative 1860s which emphasises the humour of the play, to great effect.
McGruder’s assertions that this is what Wilde’s original intentions were are not as convincing, however, and at times it feels as though too much emphasis has been placed upon the concept of “beautiful idiots and brilliant lunatics” in the play. At times it seems more farcical than satirical, which means that the more serious moments can seem out of place.
Adam Perchard’s Lord Goring is very funny as a strutting dandy, but his lack of constancy or seriousness makes it hard for us to understand why the morally upright Lady Chiltern turns to him for help and advice when her husband’s career and reputation are threatened by the devious Mrs Cheveley. Some of the characters also risk becoming unbelievable caricatures.
Although undoubtedly very funny at moments, the production could have benefited by being slightly more restrained, as can be seen in Anouchka Goldman’s and Antonia Lloyd’s excellent performances, showing just how much emotion and comedy can be communicated through understatement.
10th Nov 2005