Offering a refreshingly welcome take on a period drama, Well Behaved Women revisits history, focusing on the lives of three characters in the late 19th century at a time when women had very little choice.
Bringing the audience on a 70-minute comedic journey which, at times, feels like an excerpt from a new Jane Austen novel, we are introduced to Marianne, Emma and Hattie, all with different desires in life, and each facing their own individual challenges.
Written by Amy Yeo and directed by Hannah Rogerson, Well Behaved Women boldly presents the reality of a more diverse Victorian society, exploring the challenges faced by lower-class women, queer women, and women of colour, whilst ultimately highlighting the strength of female friendship.
Set on All Hallows’ Eve in 1883, the young women are hosting a séance, as part of aspiring journalist Marianne’s mission to uncover a significant scandal, get a byline in a national newspaper, and make a name for herself.
Two men complete the cast, Chester and Fred, with all five actors passionate and convincing performers. Evelyn Faber as Hattie was particularly impressive, playing a queer woman who is drunk at the beginning of the story, before later pretending to be her absent husband.
The play is fast-moving and infused with humour throughout, making it a really enjoyable watch.
Visually, it is exciting, featuring traditional Victorian fashion and boasting a set smartly managed backstage to create the idea of a ghost being present. Sound is used effectively, though at times it might be lowered to prevent the actors’ voices from being lost.
As the show comes to an end, it does feel that the quest to a resolution is currently a bit too lengthy. With the path to the conclusion appearing somewhat jumbled, there could be room to make the production even stronger overall.
For fans of the stories of Bridgerton, Jane Eyre, Pride and Prejudice, Little Women and the like, Well Behaved Women is definitely worth a watch. An entertaining and ambitious production which provides a compelling commentary on women’s lives at the time.
