High Society
An upper-class, divorced socialite begins to have doubts the day before her wedding. Upon this simple premise one of the most sparkling musical comedies of the fifties is based, featuring some of Cole Porter’s most memorable tunes, including Who Wants to be a Millionaire? and True Love.
A scene from High Society at Upstairs at the Gatehouse Photo: Lucy Young
Director John Plews has taken the liberty of transporting the action of the musical from Long Island to Hampshire, and imbibes the story with such a breakneck pace that there is barely time to draw breath. This is only a problem for some of the more louche scenes, such as Well Did You Evah!, where a little light and shade might be beneficial.
Where the pace really picks up, particularly at the opening of Act II, there is snappy choreography to complement it, devised by Lee Proud.
The characters are full of life, inevitably led by Kirby Hughes as Tracy Lord. Hughes is absolutely top-drawer, balancing the elitism of the socialite with a blatant vulnerability that works beautifully, especially in her scenes with Peter Kenworthy as her ex Dexter.
Hayley Emma Otway is superb as the pragmatic Liz, hitting a highlight with the charming He’s a Right Guy.
When it comes to the comedy, Jessica Bastick-Vines as the young Dinah is hilarious, playing the spoiled brat with relish, whilst Peter Le Breuilly is equally hysterical as the lecherous Uncle Willie, belting out his particular philosophy in life, Say it With Gin.
For those who are looking for a diversion from the usual Christmas pantomime, then High Society might be the perfect choice.
Production information
- By:
- book by Arthur Kopit, music and lyrics by Cole Porter, Additional lyrics by Susan Birkenhead based on the play ‘The Philadelphia Story’ by Philip Barry
- Management:
- Ovation by arrangement with MusicScope and Stage Musicals Limited of New York
- Cast:
- Adam Pritchard, Brendan Cull, Brendan Matthew, Dympna Le Rasle, Jessica Bastic-Vines, Hayley Emma Otway, Kirby Hughes, Nicola Martin, Peter Kenworthy, Peter Le Breuilly Tony Lewis, Yasmin Wakefield
- Director:
- John Plews
- Design:
- Fi Russell
- Lighting:
- Howard Hudson
- Costumes:
- Geri Spencer
- Choreography:
- Lee Proud
- Musical direction:
- Tom Kelly
Production information can change over the run of the show.
Run sheet
- Upstairs at the Gatehouse London
- December 22 2009-January 31 2010
Content is copyright © 2012 The Stage Media Company Limited unless otherwise stated.
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