A Night of Chaos and Comedy in “Fallen Angels”
“Fallen Angels,” a 1925 comedy by Noël Coward, is a short play that clocks in at just over an hour and a half with no intermission. The production opened at the Todd Haimes Theatre on W. 42nd Street, offering audiences a glimpse into the wild world of two women who are anything but composed.
The story centers around two women, Jane and Julia, played by Rose Byrne and Kelli O’Hara. These characters are far from the typical image of a refined woman; instead, they are both unhappily married and driven to the bottle. Their husbands, Willy and Fred, are portrayed as dull and uninteresting, making their lives even more suffocating.
As the play unfolds, the audience is treated to a series of comedic moments that are largely driven by the chemistry between Byrne and O’Hara. Their performance is nothing short of remarkable, as they transition from being the picture of elegance to a pair of wild, drunken women. This transformation is reminiscent of the characters Edina and Patsy from “Absolutely Fabulous,” complete with flailing and maniacal behavior.
The second scene of the play is particularly enjoyable, offering a riotous experience that contrasts sharply with the earlier, more awkward moments. While the initial scenes may feel a bit forced, the middle of the play delivers a delightful and entertaining experience. The humor here is not so much derived from Coward’s writing as it is from the actors’ ability to bring the characters to life in a way that is both funny and engaging.
Byrne’s portrayal of Jane is especially noteworthy. She brings a unique energy to the role, showcasing her talent for playing characters who fall apart in dramatic fashion. Her performance is reminiscent of roles she has played in films such as “Bridesmaids” and “Neighbors.” Meanwhile, O’Hara, known for her work in musicals like “The King and I” and “South Pacific,” demonstrates a different side of her acting abilities. Watching her character descend into chaos is both amusing and impressive.
While the focus of the play is clearly on the two leading ladies, there are other characters that also play a role in the story. Tracee Chimo, who plays Saunders, the maid, brings a unique energy to the play. However, her character is somewhat limited, serving more as a comedic relief than a central figure in the narrative.
The actors portraying the husbands, Christopher Fitzgerald and Aasif Mandvi, do not fare as well. Their performances are often seen as unnecessary additions to the play, detracting from the overall experience. The director, Scott Ellis, attempts to make every moment of the play comedic, but this approach sometimes feels forced. The husbands are portrayed in a way that makes it difficult to believe they are truly connected to the main characters.
Mark Consuelos, who plays Maurice Duclos, arrives late in the play and brings a French flair with his performance. However, his character is somewhat underdeveloped, leaving much to be desired.
In conclusion, “Fallen Angels” is a play that relies heavily on the performances of its lead actresses. Despite some shortcomings in the supporting roles and the direction, the play offers a fun and entertaining experience. The combination of humor, chaos, and strong performances makes it a must-see for those looking for a night of laughter and entertainment.
