Talisman Theatre’s Vortex gets top marks

Noel Coward

Talisman Theatre

Barrow Road

Kenilworth

Until Saturday May 28

Noel Coward’s Vortex is a play and a half.

It’s London 1924 and there’s a maelstrom in generational politics.

The central character, Florence, (Christine Carpenter) is the vortex - one of those friends who can’t help but be the centre of attention – needy, thrilling, self-centred, engaging. T

he other characters, including her son Nicky, (Joe Fallowell) are simply there to support her ego.

The play centres around his revolt at this state of affairs – quite literally as his mother is having an affair with Tom Veryan (Gareth Cooper), a much-younger man, under the nose of his father and who recognises in Nicky’s fiancee Bunty Mainwaring (Alison Hanson) an old flame that still burns.

Their passionate kiss, seen by both partners, lights the touchpaper that brings Nicky to challenge his mother to stop her shallow, sentimental and overemotional pretences and help him for a change.

The unsung hero and voice of reason throughout is Helen (Rosemary Gowers) quietly supporting the changes that both mother and son need to make for their relationship to be mutually supportive.

The attention to detail in this production is of the usual high Talisman standard – the set by Paul Chokman is amazing, the costumes designed by Christopher Ward are incredible.

Clara’s hat was a showstopper for me.

Thanks go to ‘man of the match’ Christine Carpenter for a fully rounded Florence when it so easily could have become farce.

Thank you, too, to director Ann Brooks for a great evening and giving up her seat to a long-legged companion.

Full marks.