Enjoy a saucy evening with The Country Wife

Mr Horner charming the ladies. Photo by Lucy Barriball.

The Country Wife by William Wycherley. Playbox Theatre presents Restoration Season until 29 March at the Dream Factory, Warwick. Directed by Mr McGill, Assistant Directors Mrs Hope,Mrs Danks-Smith.

Review by Ann Evans

It was another brilliant performance by Playbox Theatre, this time by the cast of The Country Wife. This was Playbox's second production in their Spring Restoration Season.  Set in the mid 17th century, this was the period of theatre history when women were allowed to tread the boards as actors, dazzling their audiences with their wit, artistry, independence and beauty.

The Country Wife, is said to be one of the most infamous comedies of its time and was banned for almost 200 years due to its provocative plot. With the characters being from the aristocracy of the day, the scandalous mischief they all got up to, risqué humour, seduction, sexual innuendos and wickedly naughty behaviour must have taken the world of theatre by storm at the time.

It has to be said though, that this play is absolutely wonderful – extremely funny, a riot of colour and luxurious gowns and clothing. There’s lavish velvets, shimmering silks, gold brocades, satin heeled shoes, perfect make up and magnificent hair and wigs…. and that’s just the men!

The Company of The Country Wife. Photo by Lucy Barriball.

The style of humour is very much farce-like, with characters being hidden behind doors, all kinds of deception going on, raging jealousy, blatantly sexual overtones – altogether creating an evening of fabulous entertainment.

I loved the way, upon arrival, you walk into a rather well-to-do setting with members of the 17th century aristocracy chatting amongst themselves, who then make casual conversation with the audience as they take their seats, all delightfully well spoken, and impeccably dressed.

The start of the play is a fanfare of music from that era, swirling silk gowns and a flurry of fans. I loved the greetings between the characters – the fake Mwaa Mwaa kisses, until of course we meet Mr Horner (Mr Somanatham) – who has the reputation of being impotent so husbands will trust him with their wives - then there are no holds barred!

Brilliant acting by every one of the cast, each person making their character their very own with their style, outlandish traits, confidence and over-the-top mannerisms. Must mention the brilliant Mr Pinchwife (Mr Lomas) who is driven mad with jealousy as his beautiful wife Margery (MrsDelahaye) falls for Mr Horner – and he for her, along with quite a few other beautiful wives, sisters and fiancée’s.   

Scandalous times. Photo by Lucy Barriball..

There’s lots of lovely touches in this performance, such as the use of the back cinematic screen which adds to the scenery and plot with some cryptic sub-titles. Also, the way the characters include the audience in their shenanigans as opinions are sought and little interactions all add to the fun.

The ending is a riot of hilarity followed by the most spectacular dance sequence. Choreography (Hannah Hampson) – the finale instantly had the entire audience up on their feet giving a standing ovation. 

Wonderful entertainment – those actors from King Charles II’s day certainly knew how to have a good time!

There’s still time to book your seats at this excellent theatre in Warwick. As The Country Wife will be performed one more time on Saturday 29 March. Don't miss it! : https://www.playboxtheatre.com/events/the-country-wife/