Review | Private Lives | Royal Exchange Theatre | 01 April 2026
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
Perhaps the safest choice in the Royal Exchange Theatre’s homecoming season, Private Lives is one of those ever-present classics that always seems to be playing somewhere. Yet when it’s done right, you’re reminded exactly why it has stood the test of time. Under the assured direction of Blanche McIntyre, this revival proves just that.
When fiery divorced couple Amanda (Jill Halfpenny) and Elyot (Steve John Shepherd) find themselves honeymooning with new partners in adjacent rooms, the last thing they expect is to run into each other. Naturally, that’s precisely what happens. Nearly a hundred years on from its debut, Coward’s razor-sharp comedy ought to feel more like a period piece, but instead it feels as though it could have been written yesterday.
Rather than over modernising elements to ensure relevance, McIntyre wisely lets the performances do the work. The result is a production that feels both fresh and faithful. The comedic timing is exquisite across the board, not just in the lines but in every movement and facial expression. Halfpenny leads the cast with an icy confidence as Amanda, which is hilarious to watch when juxtaposed beside Steve John Shepherd’s hilariously dry witted interpretation of Elyot.
With productions staged in the round, stage design can feel restricted, with sight-lines needing greater consideration. Dick Bird’s stage design is anything but boring, completely changed either side of the interval. From mirrored art deco hotel balconies in act one, to a more intimate chic Parisian apartment thereafter, the audience doesn’t need to use any sort of imagination to piece things together. A revolve is used to wonderful effect, cleverly changing speed alongside the shifting dynamics of the relationships on stage.
What is perhaps most impressive is how effortlessly the production balances the changing tone. The laughs come thick and fast, but they’re undercut by flashes of something darker. Under McIntyre’s direction, Private Lives feels as relevant as ever. It’s not revolutionary, but it isn’t trying to be, nor should it. This is top quality theatre done right, continuing the Exchange’s run of fantastic theatre under new creative director Selina Cartmell.
Private Lives plays at Royal Exchange Theatre until Saturday 02 May 2026.
Note: My ticket was gifted in exchange for a review. This review is based on my honest opinion alone and is without influence.
