Titres dans Drames et pièces de théâtre

Step into the enchanting world of the Victorian theater with Mimic Life; or Before and Behind the Curtain, a captivating collection of three narratives inspired by Mowatt’s own experiences on stage. In the stories Stella, The Prompter’s Daughter, and The Unknown Tragedian, we uncover the daily struggles faced by theatrical workers of the time and challenge the enduring prejudices against this vibrant profession. Join us for a journey that sheds light on the artistry and resilience behind the curtain. - Summary by Kelly S. Taylor

Dive into the world of Anton Chekhovs Uncle Vanya, a poignant tragicomedy that explores the complexities of human relationships and the chaos that ensues when a retired professor returns to his crumbling country estate with his stunning young wife. As unrequited love, rivalry, and illicit romance intertwine, the characters navigate their tangled emotions with Chekhovs signature blend of melancholy and humor. Join us for an engaging performance that captures the essence of life, love, and the struggles of the human spirit. (Summary by Elizabeth Klett) Cast Alexander Serebrakoff Andy Minter, ...

When a young man, freshly engaged, finds himself wandering through an amusement garden with an old flame—rather than his fiancée—its no surprise that old feelings resurface. As they escape the pulsating heat of the dance floor for a stroll among the gardens trees, they stumble upon a statue of a woman of extraordinary beauty, her hands impossibly small. In a moment of playful comparison, the young man attempts to prove that his absent fiancée has even smaller hands. To his astonishment, the engagement ring he carries slips easily onto the stone finger, but refuses to come off. What ...

In the captivating tale of Truculentus; The Churl, we meet Phronesium, a charming courtesan torn between three suitors the debauched young Athenian Dinarchus, the earnest Strabax from the countryside, and the ambitious Stratophanes, a captain in the Babylonian army. Amidst a web of intrigue and unexpected twists, which of these admirers will win her heart? Join us for a delightful journey filled with romance and rivalry, as we explore the choices that define love. - Summary by The Play and Todd

Dive into the comedic world of The Taming of the Shrew, one of Shakespeares earliest masterpieces, influenced by Roman comedy and the lively Italian commedia dellarte. Set in Padua, we meet Baptista Minola, a wealthy gentleman with two daughters the fiery Katherina, notorious for her sharp wit, and the sweet Bianca, desired by many suitors. Baptistas decree that Bianca cannot marry until Katherina finds a husband sets the stage for a series of comedic events. Enter Petruchio, determined to wive it wealthily in Padua, who is convinced by Biancas suitors to take on the challenge of wooing ...

Dive into a captivating collection of six short stories that reveal how even the most seemingly perfect marriages can be undermined by the very people in them. Each tale offers a unique perspective on the complexities of love and the hidden struggles that can lead to unhappiness. - Summary by Carolin

Sweet Lavender stands out as one of the most celebrated stage plays of modern times, and it is undoubtedly the most beloved work of Mr. Pinero. With countless performances across the globe, its charm resonates with audiences far and wide. The secret to its enduring popularity lies in its blend of gentle humanity and delightful humor, offering a refreshing take that feels like a modern fairy tale. - Summary by Malcom C. Salaman, October 1893

Dive into the uproarious world of Richard Brinsley Sheridans classic comedy, first performed in 1777. School For Scandal unravels the tangled web of intrigues and scandals among the British upper classes. At the center of the chaos is Lady Sneerwell, who has her sights set on marrying Charles Surface, while Joseph Surface is intent on winning the heart of the beautiful heiress Maria, who, unfortunately for him, prefers Charles. To sabotage this budding romance, Lady Sneerwell and Joseph resort to spreading scandalous rumors about Charles and the new young wife of Sir Peter Teazle, Marias ...

Step into the vibrant world of Elizabethan London with The Shoemakers Holiday, a delightful play penned by Thomas Dekker and first brought to life in 1599 by the Admirals Men. This enchanting city comedy reveals the trials and tribulations of aristocrat Rowland Lacy, who finds himself smitten with the middle-class Rose Oateley. However, their love faces fierce opposition from both Roses father and Rowlands uncle due to their differing social standings and Rowlands reckless ways. In a bid to prove his worth, Rowland cleverly avoids military service by disguising himself as Hans, a Dutch ...

Step into the world of Molières comedic genius with The School for Wives, first performed in 1662. This play explores the intricate dynamics between jealous lovers and the innocent wards they seek to control. A delightful blend of wit and farce, it invites listeners to witness the cunning of love as it liberates a young girl from the constraints of authority. Notably, Molières own marriage during this period may have influenced his portrayal of relationships. Join us as we delve into this timeless classic and discover how Molières perspective on love and marriage may have evolved. - Summary...

Runaway marks the debut play of Cowley, first brought to life at Drury Lane by the renowned actor-manager David Garrick in 1776. This captivating tale quickly garnered success, inspiring Cowley to pen two more plays by the end of the year. The story revolves around George Hargrave, who wishes to marry Emily, a spirited runaway and ward of his godfather. However, family pressures loom as Georges father insists he wed the wealthy but much older Lady Dinah. Will true love ultimately prevail in this delightful drama? - Summary by ToddHW

The Two Noble Kinsmen is a captivating Jacobean tragicomedy co-crafted by William Shakespeare and John Fletcher, first published in 1634. Set against the backdrop of a war-torn ancient Greece, the story unfolds around two noble cousins, Palamon and Arcite, whose deep bond is tragically shattered by their shared love for the enchanting Emilia. As the drama unfolds, we also witness the poignant tale of the Gaolers Daughter, who descends into madness over her unrequited love for Palamon. Drawing inspiration from Chaucers The Knights Tale, this play resonates with echoes of Shakespeare’s A ...

Join us on a captivating journey into the world of Molière as we explore his unfinished Heroic Pastoral, inspired by the enchanting tale of Florizel and Perdita from Shakespeares Winter’s Tale. Though Molière only completed the first two acts, the charm of his writing, the delicate sentiment, and the vibrant pastoral scenes leave us yearning for more. This piece was performed in December 1666, offering a delightful glimpse into Molières creative genius. Following this, we present a lively Comic Pastoral, performed as part of the Ballet of the Muses in January 1667, which likely replaced ...

Experience the charm of Shakespeares earliest comedy, The Two Gentlemen of Verona, believed to have been penned around 1590-91. This delightful tale revolves around two inseparable friends, Valentine and Proteus, whose bond is tested when they both fall for the enchanting Silvia. In a twist of fate, Proteus abandons his loyal Julia to chase after Silvia, prompting Julia to disguise herself as a boy and pursue him instead. With a host of humorous supporting characters, including the unforgettable Launce and his mischievous dog, Crab, this play is a whimsical exploration of friendship, love, and...

In this poignant drama, a well-intentioned second wife finds herself in a constant struggle as she faces unfair comparisons to her husbands first wife. The profound themes of power and happiness are encapsulated in Hilary Jesson’s declaration near the end of the play I declare to you that the happy people Ive come across have never been the people who, possessing power, have employed it malevolently or uncharitably. This compelling piece not only garnered acclaim in England but also resonated with audiences as far away as Milan, where an Italian adaptation captivated theatergoers. - Summary ...

Mirandolina, a savvy innkeeper in Florence, captivates all who enter her establishment, aided only by her devoted employee, Fabricius. Among her guests are the newly wealthy Count D’Albafiorita and the impoverished yet noble Marquis di Forlipopoli, both vying for her affection while engaging in witty banter about the merits of wealth versus nobility. Meanwhile, the cynical Cavalier di Ripafratta dismisses their romantic pursuits and mocks the concept of love—yet will he succumb to the enchanting Mirandolina’s allure? Can any of these suitors truly win the heart of such an independent ...

Step back into the Wild West with Lightnin, a captivating tale from 1918 that captivated audiences for over 1000 performances on Broadway and inspired two film adaptations. Set against the backdrop of a seedy hotel straddling the Nevada-California state line, this story unfolds as Lightnin’ Bill Jones and his wife navigate a world rife with legal complexities and cunning out-of-town businessmen. As the locals band together, they reveal a depth of savvy and resilience that surprises everyone. Join us for a thrilling ride through the hills where the unexpected is always just around the corner....

Step into the witty world of Oscar Wildes most celebrated play, where two dapper bachelors, Jack Worthing and Algernon Moncrieff, cleverly navigate their social lives with the help of invented identities. However, their charming fabrications unravel in amusing fashion when love enters the scene, embodied by the enchanting Gwendolyn Fairfax and the sweet Cecily Cardew. As the gentlemen scramble to untangle their tangled web of lies to win their hearts and face the formidable Lady Bracknell, a delightful chaos ensues. Join us for an entertaining journey filled with humor and romance, expertly ...

Dive into the whimsical yet poignant world of Life and Death of Tom Thumb the Great, a satirical play that parodies the grand narratives of heroic biographies. Follow the journey of Tom Thumb, a mighty little hero with a big heart, as he navigates love, ambition, and the absurdities of court life. With a blend of biting humor and clever footnotes by the fictitious H. Scriblerus Secundus, this play offers a unique take on the events and personalities of its time. Beware, as the title suggests, this is not your typical fairy tale with a happy ending. Rumor has it that Jane Austen even performed ...

The History of Troilus and Cressida has long perplexed both critics and audiences with its erratic tone, oscillating between bawdy comedy and somber tragedy. This complex work features an unheroic and often unsympathetic cast of characters, weaving through a multitude of subplots and locations that can overshadow even its titular figures. We follow the young Trojan warrior Troilus as he pursues the indifferent Cressida, while also witnessing the Greek leader Agamemnons attempts to compel the proud Achilles into battle, alongside the scathing fool Thersites, who critiques the vanity and ...