Flare Path - Smith Shines at First Preview Night

Online, March 5, 2011 (Newswire.com) - Upon taking my seat at the Theatre Royal, Haymarket I notice I am sitting right behind the shows director Trevor Nunn, for a moment I contemplate asking him to sign my programme but decide against it as he is probably quite nervous with this being opening night.

The play is set in the 1940's during wartime at a guesthouse on the outskirts of a British RAF base. Focussing on the relationships between the pilots and their wives and in particular an extra marital affair between Patricia Warren (played by Sienna Miller) the wife of Flight Lieutenant Graham (Harry Hadden-Paton) and the movie star James Peter Kyle (James Purefoy).

As this was the very first preview night there was some minor slip ups with the dialogue, but only minor ones which after a few more performances and the actors finding their timing should easily be ironed out.

My stand out performance of the night though had to be Sheridan Smith who played Doris otherwise known as the Countess. Fresh from her role as Elle in Legally Blonde she had a true stage presence that really captured the audience. Her timing, comic lines and portrayal of tragedy could not be faulted.

That could also be said for Harry Hadden-Paton during one scene where he had a breakdown after almost not making it back from a mission really made the hairs on the back of your neck stand up.

The comic element of the play was from a Polish Count affectionately called Johnny by his wife.

Another performance that needs to be mentioned is Joe Armstong who played Dusty, he embodied a typical Airman of the time doing his bit for King and Country despite his own physical pain, personal sacrifice and near death experiences.

If I am honest I would like to reserve judgement on the plays two main stars Sienna Miller and James Purefoy as mey maybe just waiting to find their groove, but I was not blown away by their performances as much as ome of the other characters.

My overall thoughts on the play was excellent and when the actors have settled in to their roles it will be a great night out.

http://www.travelshorts.com/flare-path-preview-night-review/