A Night of Chaos and Comedy in “Fallen Angels”
“Fallen Angels,” a 1925 comedy by Noël Coward, is a short play that packs a punch. At just over an hour and 30 minutes with no intermission, it’s a whirlwind of humor, chaos, and unexpected brilliance. The revival of this piece opened at the Todd Haimes Theatre on W. 42nd Street, and it’s a show that delivers in spades—especially when it comes to the performances of its leading ladies.
The play starts off with a shaky tone, relying on oversold jokes and exaggerated British accents that can be overwhelming. However, it quickly finds its rhythm once the two main characters, Jane and Julia, take center stage. These are not your typical well-mannered women of the time; they’re wild, free-spirited, and completely unfiltered.
Two Women, One Wild Night
Rose Byrne and Kelli O’Hara bring an energy to their roles that is both captivating and hilarious. Their characters, Jane and Julia, are unhappily married women who have reached their breaking point. They’re stuck in a cycle of domestic drudgery and boring husbands, which leads them to seek escape through alcohol and nostalgia.
As the play progresses, the pair becomes increasingly intoxicated, turning their elegant surroundings into a scene of pure chaos. They tumble over furniture, scream, and generally lose themselves in the moment. It’s a performance that is equal parts comedy and tragedy, as the audience watches these women descend into madness, but in a way that feels entirely authentic.
The Power of the Lead Performers
What makes this production stand out is the chemistry between Byrne and O’Hara. Their physicality and comedic timing are unmatched, making them the heart of the show. Byrne, in particular, shines in her role as Jane, bringing a mix of vulnerability and absurdity that keeps the audience laughing. Her character’s breakdown is both entertaining and emotionally resonant, showing how far she’s willing to go for a moment of freedom.
O’Hara, known for her strong performances in musicals like “The King and I” and “South Pacific,” brings a different kind of energy to her role. She plays Julia with a mix of grace and recklessness, and her ability to switch from composed to completely unraveled is nothing short of impressive. Watching her slide down a grand staircase and spit out sweets is a visual treat that adds to the overall spectacle.
Supporting Cast and Directorial Choices
While the lead performances are stellar, the supporting cast doesn’t quite match the same level of energy. Tracee Chimo plays Saunders, Julia’s maid, and while her performance is competent, it lacks the depth needed to make her character memorable. Similarly, the actors playing the husbands, Willy and Fred, struggle to find their footing in a play that seems to focus more on the women than on their relationships.
Director Scott Ellis attempts to inject humor into every moment, but some of these efforts fall flat. The husbands, in particular, come across as caricatures rather than real people, which makes it difficult to believe in their relationships with the main characters. This lack of believability can be distracting and takes away from the overall experience.
A Play That Leaves You Wanting More
Despite these issues, “Fallen Angels” is a play that manages to entertain and engage its audience. The second half of the show is particularly strong, with the drunken antics of Jane and Julia providing a much-needed break from the earlier, more tedious moments. The play’s climax, where the characters confront their past and their present, is both humorous and poignant.
Mark Consuelos, who plays Maurice Duclos, brings a sense of charm and mystery to his role, though his entrance is somewhat delayed. His French accent, while not perfect, adds to the overall whimsy of the production.
In conclusion, “Fallen Angels” is a play that may not be perfect, but it’s definitely worth watching for the performances of Rose Byrne and Kelli O’Hara. Their energy and talent elevate the material, making even the weakest parts of the script enjoyable. If you’re looking for a night of laughter and chaos, this revival is sure to deliver.
