Talents to amuse
Windsor and Maidenhead Observer - 21 July 2000

Many people may be escaping the uncertain English summer weather for warmer climes, but for those of us still here, 'Out in the Midday Sun' certainly filled us with a warm glow at the Theatre Royal Windsor on Sunday. And it turned out to be an extra special show.

Readers of the Observer will already know that its pianist and singer Michael Law lives in Windsor, but for its genial host and raconteur, Sheridan Morley, it was an 'extraordinary homecoming', "I have had this theatre in my life for 50 years. This is where I grew up theatrically, and because of this I wanted to be a theatre critic," he said.

Currently working on John Gielgud's authorised biography and the first and only biographer of Noel Coward who actually knew him, he is also on the governing board of the Theatre Royal and made a heartfelt plea when he said to the audience: "This theatre is one of the great survivors in a difficult economic climate and it must be preserved. It's a wonderful theatre and it depends absolutely on people like you. Because of you and your faith and your loyalty it stays open."

Sheridan was asked by Coward to write a 'critical biography' when he was just 24 years old. Three years later he produced 'A Talent to Amuse'. For 40 years, he says, he's been 'banging on about him', and so he is a mine of information, known and unknown, about 'The Master' some of which he delivered in his own wonderfully theatrical and exuberant way.

Sheridan's big personality means he is already a well-known figure, but this particular show would have been nothing without Michael Law. Coward wrote 400 songs, and Sheridan said it was through them that you discovered the truth about him.

It was Michael's impeccable interpretations, however, which brought these songs to life. With wonderful diction and sophistication, Michael is the quintessence of Coward; it's not surprising that on Radio 2 recently Russell Davies said he sang 'Nina from Argentina' better than the original!

Nice harmonising with vocalist Helen Goldwyn, who also proved to be something of a musical comedy star at times, together with the sharp, dry, sophisticated wit of Coward, makes this show a sure winner and, after shouts of 'More', and they sang 'I'll See You Again', we were hoping so.

Clare Brotherwood
Windsor and Maidenhead Observer - 21 July 2000