The Constant Wife review – Rose Leslie and Laura Wade let fresh light into Maugham’s drawing room

Laura Wade’s vibrant new adaptation of W. Somerset Maugham’s 1926 comedy of manners, ‘The Constant Wife,’ is currently captivating audiences at the Swan Theatre in Stratford upon Avon, breathing fresh light into a nearly century-old tale of societal conventions and personal liberation. This Royal Shakespeare Company production, starring Game of Thrones actress Rose Leslie, masterfully reinterprets Maugham’s classic with a contemporary sensibility, proving that themes of adultery, economic independence, and female agency remain as relevant today as they were in the roaring twenties. The play offers a sharp, witty take on a familiar premise, enhanced by a compelling jazz score from Jamie Cullum that underscores its dynamic spirit.

Wade’s genius lies in her ability to trim the original cast and seamlessly integrate her own incisive, witty one-liners, providing a remarkably fresh perspective without sacrificing the play’s historical integrity. The adaptation meticulously retains the authentic 1920s Harley Street setting, immersing the audience in an era defined by evolving social norms and burgeoning female independence. This thoughtful reimagining not only respects Maugham’s original narrative but also enriches it with modern comedic timing and a nuanced understanding of its characters’ internal struggles. It’s a delicate balance of reverence and innovation that truly makes this ‘Play Review’ stand out in the contemporary theatre landscape.

At the heart of ‘The Constant Wife’ lies the compelling journey of Constance, portrayed with remarkable depth by Rose Leslie. Confronted with her surgeon-husband John’s affair with her best friend, Marie-Louise, Constance embarks on a path towards economic independence by forging a new career as an interior decorator. This pivotal decision, radical for a woman of her era, serves as a central theme, exploring the broader implications of financial autonomy on personal freedom and societal expectations. Wade’s adaptation also subtly, yet effectively, highlights Constance’s maternal concerns, adding layers of emotional complexity to her character beyond the initial scandal.

Critics have widely lauded the seamless blend of Maugham’s original dialogue with Wade’s modern gags, creating a production that feels both familiar and refreshingly new. Wade gains extra comedic mileage by playfully riffing on Maugham’s dated expressions, such as “you’re a brick,” integrating them into a contemporary comedic framework that elicits genuine laughter. The result is a drawing-room comedy that, while retaining its classic structure, feels plumped up, stylishly rearranged, and adorned with a fresh coat of linguistic paint. This intelligent interweaving of wit ensures the play resonates deeply with a modern audience while honoring its origins.

Beyond the sharp script and stellar performances, the production’s sumptuous designs by Anna Fleischle and Cat Fuller play a crucial role in transporting audiences to the opulent 1920s. These visual elements complement the narrative, enhancing the atmosphere of flagrant philandering, poisonous gossip, and fabulous fashion that defines Maugham’s world. ‘The Constant Wife’ is praised not only for its stylish rearrangement and energetic presentation but also for its humorous and thought-provoking look at social conventions, relationships, and the nascent stirrings of female agency in a bygone era. The Royal Shakespeare Company has delivered a theatrical experience that is both intellectually stimulating and thoroughly entertaining, solidifying its place as a must-see in current Theatre offerings.