Fallen Angels
Noël Coward
A sharp comedy focusing on two best friends Julia and Jane who are both awaiting the arrival of a Frenchman with whom they both had a pre-marital affair. As their husbands are away on a golfing trip the women become increasingly intoxicated and competitive as they anticipate the lover's visit. The play was scandalous at the time for its honest and comedic portrayal of female sexual desire and its irreverent treatment of the institution of marriage.
Julia Sterroll: A restless wife. Jane Banbury: Julia's competitive best friend. Maurice Duclos: The Frenchman who haunts their memories.
First Performance: 1925, at Globe Theatre, London
A commercial success despite being denounced by some critics for its supposed 'vulgarity' and 'immorality.'
Original Actors: Tallulah Bankhead, Edna Best
