Relative
Values was written at a time when Coward’s reputation for
light, upper-class comedies was being derided by the then ‘angry
young men’ of the theatre. However, when first produced
in 1951, it successfully ran along side ‘kitchen sink’ dramas
in the West End.
The play takes place in
the home of the Earl of Marshwood and involves the mingling
of people from "upstairs" and "downstairs".
Felicity, Dowager Countess of Marshwood, is awaiting the arrival
of her son Nigel, Earl of Marshwood, and his new fiancée,
the glamorous film star, Miranda Frayle.
It is soon discovered that Moxie, the Dowager's personal maid,
has a family connection with the famous Miranda Frayle. Steps
are hastily taken to avoid embarrassing Moxie - though they do
not entirely suit her.
Added to this is the unexpected
arrival of Don Lucas, a Hollywood heart throb who is besotted
with - and one-time lover of – Miranda.
When it's time to go to
church on Sunday morning, after some scenes of delicious comic
confusion, the plot is resolved – whether
to everyone’s satisfaction you will have to come and see. |
