Quality Street

QUALITY STREET IS FULL OF DELICIOUS BITE-SIZED PIECES, WITH MULTIPLE FLAVOURS ALL WRAPPED UP IN A COLOURFUL AND JOYOUS PRODUCTION

Did you know that family-favourite Quality Street chocolates were named after a play? Nope? Neither did I! But the Bolton Octagon are offering up a tasty helping of the infamous name with a Regency rom-com. When you hear the name ‘Quality Street’ you instantly think of little delicious delights wrapped up in the brightest, most colourful wrappers, so I went along to the theatre expecting the play to be just that.

The play is brought to the Octagon by Northern Broadsides in a co-production with New Vic Theatre. The story itself is nothing out of the ordinary, it’s a classic witty romantic storyline where two people long to be together. It follows sweet and quiet Phoebe as her old flame, Valentine, returns from war leaving her anxious to see him after ten years apart. During Valentine’s departure, Phoebe has become older and less glamorous than she once was, which leads to a disappointed reaction from her previous crush. She is spurred into action, donning a flirtatious alter-ego, as her niece Livvy, with plans to rekindle their romance. We see how this longing for love has led to Phoebe juggling both personas and how she is threatened by a scandal. 

Full of Northern wit and joyous gems, the play is easy-going, simple-watching entertaining evening out. There’s nothing dark and twisty or a backstory which causes a threat to the characters, everything is what you get on the surface. I enjoy theatre shows like this, especially during the week, as they offer a break from the everyday world without having to think about who is who, or who is hiding what - you can simply turn up, relax and enjoy. 

The set was basic with a few pieces of living room furniture placed around the sides which could change into a school classroom and of course, the anticipated ball. We see the living room furniture decorated with white and blue knitted blankets and covers, this is all taken away once Valentine leaves for the war leaving the dark and old wood furniture on display. This helped to see the transition through time and how much the characters have aged, it was particularly reflective of the sad and depressed Phoebe who was once a cheerful and bright soul. 

The costumes are what you expect for a Regency-era play, long dresses in dull colours against smart, red army uniforms clearing displaying rank and class. I loved the costumes for the ball in Act 2, they really emphasised the change in Phoebe's character and her willingness to become her alter ego. Not only that, the dresses were like flowing Quality Street wrappers! They glistened and shined against the lights and there was one perfectly matched to every colour of the chocolates too.

The strong cast of eight is led by Paula Lane (Coronation Street, Call The Midwife, Father Brown) as Phoebe. Lane’s performance is intricate and excellent, making clear comparisons between Phoebe and her alter ego Miss Livvy. She switches from the dull and tired teacher to the extravagant and outrageous girl effortlessly with over-the-top, dramatic movements added for comedic effect. 

Lane’s change of characterisation is a stark contrast to Phoebe’s sister, Susan, played by Louisa-May Parker (Coronation Street, Hollyoaks, Sitcom Stories) who is a constant, calming presence throughout. There is no change in Susan's character as the time passes by, making her a comfort for Phoebe and a great sister to rely on. 

Love interest, Captain Valentine Brown is just as comedic and sweet as Phoebe. Portrayed by Aron Julius (Death In Paradise, As You Like It, A Christmas Carol), Valentine is a perfect match for heroine Phoebe. Although they aren’t aware, the love between them has lasted all through the years apart and Valentine is not tempted by Miss Livvy’s flirtatious nature. For all the comedic, hopeful romantic moments between the pair, we still see the deep love they have for each other and the frustration this has led to as they are unaware of the mutual feelings. 

The rest of the cast switch between characters, from Regency romantics to Quality Street factory workers. This was a brilliant idea to have retired factory workers act as narrators as they immediately broke the fourth wall by speaking to and including the audience - they even offered up the off chocolate. 

If you like Netflix hits Bridgerton and The Crown, this is the play for you. It’s full of delicious bite-sized pieces, with multiple flavours all wrapped up in a colourful and joyous production. As for the relevance to the chocolates themselves - still no idea! 

WE SCORE QUALITY STREET...