Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #582543 in Books
• Published on: 1989-04
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 2
• Binding: Audio Cassette

Customer Reviews

Witty reparte shines in this recording
Wish this was available on CD.
Students, actors, and Coward enthusiasts have a wonderful example of vintage Coward. Scofield and Routledge shine in their roles of Elliot and Amanda, the two sparring partners in love.
The key to Coward is the quick, witty reparte of the dialogue. Both actors are wonderful in their roles. And in this particular production, the balcony scene, when they recall their former happiness together is very poignant. This comes from their expertise in knowing how to deliver a line, such as Amanda's "extraordinary how potent...cheap music is"
The two supporting roles are well acted as well.

The flip side of this is another Coward classic, HAYFEVER. Peggy Ashcroft is supported by a talent cast in this screwball story of a very oddball family.

Absolutely Splendid
It's unfortunate this item is out of print . . it contains fabulous performances by Patricia Routledge (Hyacinth of "Keeping Up Appearances", for all you Britcom fans), Paul Scofield, and Miriam Margolyes (occasional star of the "Blackadder" series). This edition of "Private Lives" FAR excels the currently available audiocassette version, done by the LA Theatre Works; although it may be rather odd if you've seen Routledge and Scofield on TV, because they play parts suited for MUCH younger people in this comedy. If you're a fan of Coward's, I suggest you try to find this gem.