STAGE REVIEWS : Kline Delivers a Fine Revival of Coward’s ‘Present Laughter’

Contemporary critics called Noel Coward’s plays “thin” and “brittle.” Maybe that’s why his work doesn’t date. The trick is to keep Coward in his place, and his period.

It also helps to know Coward’s mechanics. “Present Laughter,” in this stunning revival at the Melrose Theater, doesn’t hold any mystery for director Richard Kline; there isn’t a particle of it he doesn’t know and respect. He’s captured the rhythms and charm of The Master’s thin and brittle style, and allows Coward to get his own laughs, which are numerous and infectious.

The play is vaguely disguised froth about Coward and his entourage, a matinee idol struggling with intramural romantic intrigues, discomfiting invasions of adoring fans and the terrors of an upcoming tour of Africa. Its wit wears a silk dressing gown, its blase heart grins, and its style is as Art Deco as Michael Shere’s excellent light and scenic design and Len Marcus’ fine period costumes.

As it was for Coward, the role of Garry Essendine is a star turn for Ian Ogilvy. Every nuance of the character is on the button, his charm, his cringing frustrations, his exuberance, his flamboyance and even the subliminal hints that Essendine wouldn’t be caught dead wearing glasses in this pre-contact lens era. His performance is a lesson in the magic of technical expertise.

With the sole exception of the miscasting of Toby Berenson in the minute role of Lady Saltburn, the supporting cast is impeccable. Belle Calaway is wonderful as Garry’s crisp, witty secretary (so much like Coward’s own beloved Lornie Lorraine), as are Stephanie Faracy as his ex-wife, and Steve Carlisle and Ian Ruskin as his professional cronies.

Michele Buffone and James Staley are perfect working-class types as his maid and valet, and Matthew Walker has a virtuoso comic turn as a struggling playwright with various designs on Essendine. Anastasia Barzee and Nancy Stafford as thorns in Garry’s side complete the exceptional company.

Don’t miss this revival if you like Coward. It’s a fine example of how to play British comedy.

At 733 N. Seward St., Hollywood; Thursdays through Saturdays, 8 p.m.; Sundays, 2 & 7 p.m.; ends July 15. $16-$18; (213) 466-1767.