Noël Coward’s biting exploration of 1920s decadence reveals the darker side of the Cocktail Party set. Drug abuse, emotional blackmail and shattered relationships are minutely observed in this disturbing early piece from a playwright whose sharp eye was more usually turned towards the light. London audiences were shocked when then play premiered in 1924, and the crisis of identity and purpose felt by the Lancaster family has lost none of its impact over the interceding 84 years.

This production is suitable for theatregoers aged 11 and older.