Noël Coward's 'Fallen Angels' Revival Opens on Broadway with Rose Byrne and Kelli O'Hara

A Broadway revival of Noël Coward's 1925 comedy 'Fallen Angels' opens at the Todd Haimes Theatre on April 19, directed by Scott Ellis and starring Rose Byrne and Kelli O'Hara. The play follows two women, Julia and Jane, whose weekend plans unravel when a former lover, Maurice, announces his visit while their husbands are away. Originally considered scandalous for its portrayal of women contemplating adultery, the work faced potential censorship from the Lord Chamberlain's Office and drew walkouts from offended audiences. Byrne notes the play's transgressive nature sparked discussions about sexuality and relationships during rehearsals. O'Hara highlights Coward's surprising insight into women's repression, crediting his theatrical upbringing among women who spoke freely. The production features period-appropriate Art Deco sets and costumes, contrasting with Byrne's recent Oscar-nominated film role. Despite its initial 1927 Broadway run lasting only 36 performances and a single 1956 revival, the cast believes the play's themes remain relevant. O'Hara describes nightly performances as unpredictable adventures where actresses struggle not to laugh at each other's antics, including an improvised moment where she slid across the stage during rehearsals. The play's humor and deeper commentary on marital desires continue to resonate nearly a century after its Globe Theatre premiere.