Classic Coward: Star-studded production of The Vortex at the Rose (From Surrey Comet)

Classic Coward: Star-studded production of The Vortex at the Rose

11:30am Monday 14th January 2013 in Leisure

Rehearsals have begun for The Rose’s new star-studded production of The Vortex.

James Dreyfus, who starred in British rom-com film Notting Hill, is joining a line-up directed by the Rose’s own Stephen Unwin.

Noel Coward’s play exposes the vanity and obsessions of the upper class, centring on Nicky Lancaster, the drug-addled, scandalous son of an aging beauty queen.

Dreyfus says: “He is quite intimidating, sarcastic, intellectual, biting and vicious. He is the perennial weekend guest that you do not want.

“Out of all of the Cowards, it is my favourite. It is not just about people with their noses in the air, it has something else.”

David Dawson, who plays Nicky, says: “He is a gorgeous character, really complex, as are all the best roles.

“The intimacy of the theatre works really well for this play. Hopefully it will make the audience feel claustrophobic, and the tension will be heightened.”

Kerry Fox, winner of a Silver Bear Best Actress award at the Berlin Film Festival, will be playing Nicky’s mother.

She starred alongside Ewan McGregor in Danny Boyle’s Shallow Grave, and has appeared in many acclaimed stage performances.

Having visited Kingston for the first time to see the pantomime, she says: “I am amazed by Kingston. It seems to be a microcosm of all the great things that London has to offer, like the Thames and the shopping.

“This theatre has a great reputation and is very well supported by the local people.”

The Vortex, February 7 – March 2, The Rose Theatre, High Street, Kingston Mon - Sat, 7.30pm. Thur & Sat matinees 2.30pm (excl. February 7) Tickets: £8-40. Call 08444 821 556 or email rosetheatre.org