The Constant Wife
Following a successful run in Stratford-upon-Avon, Laura Wade’s adaptation of W Somerset Maugham’s ‘The Constant Wife’, arrives at The Lowry, Salford. As the original celebrates its centenary this year, this adaptation embraces the core themes and brings the story to a modern audience.
Whilst the story is set in a post-World War II era, when many women were becoming discontent to continue to play the role of housewife, the feminist themes and ideas around financial independence and double standards for men and women remain somewhat relevant. These themes may have been quite radical at the time of the original but the sharp lines and thoughtful humour are the highlight of this witty, feminist comedy.
The story opens with the seemingly perfect life of Constance Middleton (Kara Tointon); happily married with a stunning home, happy family and a successful career. Beneath the surface, all is not quite so perfect. Constance’s husband John ((Tim Delap) and best friend Marie-Louise (played on press night by understudy Jocasta King) are in fact conducting a secret affair which Constance’s mother and sister (Sara Crowe and Amy Vicary-Smith) are engaged in a debate over whether or not to reveal. However, through a series of well-staged and seamlessly acted flashback scenes, the audience discover that the infidelity may not be quite so secretive as it originally seemed.
Kara Tointon puts on an excellent emotional display as Constance, from finding out about her husband and best friend’s affair to the decisions she makes to stabilise her future and carry out an unconventional revenge plot. Her performance is comedic and she brings a mature and sophisticated air to the character which contrasts well with Jocasta King’s more materialistic and ditzy portrayal of the mistress, Marie-Louise.
The set design is a lavish art-deco design which sets the scene from the start. Most of the set changes are smooth and cleverly used to reflect time changes throughout the play, although a couple of sticky moments need ironing out. Musical transitions are also used effectively with jazz music playing as scenes change or as we move between flashbacks and the present. The music has been composed specifically for the play by jazz musician Jamie Cullum and does really add to the atmosphere.
This show was reviewed at The Lowry, Salford on the 17th March 2026 where it runs until the 21st March 2026. Tickets available here: The Constant Wife | Lowry | Lowry
Review written by Rachael & Gabrielle Groves
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Photo credit: Mihaela Bodlovic
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