Broadway Revival of 'Fallen Angels' Garners Mixed Reviews for Its Comedy and Performances

Noël Coward's 1925 comedy 'Fallen Angels' has returned to Broadway, bringing with it a mixed bag of critical reviews. According to Variety, while stars Rose Byrne and Kelli O’Hara deliver captivating and energetic performances, the production itself struggles to find depth, leaving the revival appearing somewhat lackluster despite their efforts. Variety's critic highlights Byrne's and O’Hara's vibrant execution of Coward's lines, but suggests the overall direction misses the mark on capturing the substance amidst the frothy comedy.

Conversely, Deadline finds the revival to be a sparkling success, particularly due to the comedic talents of Byrne and O’Hara, who reportedly shine in their roles as wealthy women navigating absurd romantic antics. Described as 'fizzy' and 'intoxicating,' the production is praised for successfully bringing Coward's aged but timeless humor back to life with a spirit of vivacity and wit, reflective of the Jazz Age frivolity.

The divergent perspectives underscore the challenges of reviving period comedies for contemporary audiences, where coherence and comedic timing serve as critical lynchpins. As the play continues its run, it will be intriguing to see how audiences respond to this latest manifestation of Coward's classic work, and whether the performances can bridge the gap between critical expectations and theatrical enjoyment.