'You all know the reasons which have impelled me to renounce the throne. But you must believe me when I tell you that I have found it impossible to carry the heavy burden of responsibility and to discharge my duties as King as I would wish to do without the help and support of the woman I love’. King Edward VIII, 11th December, 1936
Through a medley of delightful ditties, romantic songs and a series of fast flowing scenes, the love affair of Wallis Simpson, an American married woman, and the Prince of Wales is evocatively illustrated with 1930s glitz and glamour.
We view the initial brief encounter of Wallis and Edward (then known as David) with breathless anticipation; she appears nervous but her air of discreet flirtation is observed by the playboy, ‘Peter Pan’ Prince, attracted to her ‘swell’ American movie star magnetism. Songs such as ‘An Ordinary Woman’ share the private thoughts of Mrs Simpson trapped in an unhappy marriage, and ‘A Very Modern Monarch,’ describes the future King's plans to be politically active as well as enjoy ‘golf instead of grouse and install central heating in Buck House’.
In this manner, it’s devised as a through sung Musical, leading the narrative along through witty rhymes and poignant emotion. From aristocratic soirees to yachting in Biarritz, slick changes of characters and costumes create a choreographed dance of social events, swapping tuxedos for Panama hats. A vivacious ensemble plays cameo roles, party guests, Prime Minister Baldwin, journalists and local folk from Wigan to Wales. The Depression era of unemployment is neatly portrayed, as well as financial worries for the Upper Classes with lack of staff, a time when smart girls seek 'Husbands for bills, and beaus for thrills'.
In a Chanel LBD and pearls Megan O’Hara captures Wallis’s sophisticated manner and hint of ruthless determination with polished panache; Rhys Anderson perfects Edward’s cool charisma with an uncanny resemblance to Edward Fox, star of TV series ‘Edward & Mrs Simpson.’ Simon Pavelich portrays Mr Simpson, ‘good old Ernest’ at first with jovial bonhomie, (and lively cabaret star turn), then growing despair as he realises he has lost the woman he loves.
As the extra-marital love affair becomes the subject of social gossip and headline news, the Prince’s anger is tangible, desperately trying to fight prejudice and political control. A quiet, reflective scene blends the original BBC recording of the Speech, with a song, ‘Misses the Girl’ which will send shivers up your spine. A heartfelt performance and genius direction.
The scandal which rocked the British Royal Family in the mid 1930s, is imaginatively dramatised with a melodic score – on piano, Richard Lewis almost creates a rich orchestral sound with jazzy rhythmic beat - and enchanting lyrics.
Briskly and breezily flowing along with Cowardly humour, Wallis is a powerful, political and passionate musical in the style of Evita and surely destined to be a West End - Broadway smash hit show.
Showtimes:
2 - 24 August 2024 (not 11 or 18)
Ticket price: £ 15 (£12)
Age guidance: 14+
https://www.thespaceuk.com/shows/2024/wallis