Titres dans Divertissement et arts du spectacle

In the wake of a family tragedy, Lucy Snowe embarks on a journey to the enchanting yet mysterious city of Villette, where she takes a position at an all-girls school. As she navigates her new life, she finds herself unwittingly swept into a world of adventure and romance, challenging her resilience and desires. A tale of self-discovery and emotional complexity, brought to life through the vibrant characters that surround her.

In the vibrant world of theater, a diverse cast of actors, admirers, and financial backers navigate the complexities of love and ambition. At the center of it all is Rose Trelawny, a star who yearns to step away from the spotlight for a chance at true love. However, transitioning from the stage to conventional society proves challenging, and returning to the limelight is no easy feat either. Join us for a captivating exploration of desire and identity in this poignant tale. - Summary by ToddHW

The New York Idea defies easy classification, blending elements that make it too extravagant for mere comedy while maintaining a serious tone. It delves into the complexities of human relationships, offering sharp character insights and thoughtful wit. The title draws from a characters cynical view of marriage Marry for whim and leave the rest to the divorce court—thats the New York idea of marriage. This narrative explores the consequences of a hasty divorce, showcasing a discontented woman grappling with jealousy as her ex-husband embraces the freedom she granted him. Ultimately, she ...

Step into the captivating world of eighteenth-century Quebec with Mr. Parkers enthralling tale, Seats of The Mighty. Set against the backdrop of post-General Braddocks defeat, our hero finds himself imprisoned in Quebec, ensnared in the intricate plots of La Pompadour. This gripping narrative unfolds amidst a rich tapestry of adventure and peril, culminating in the historic clash between Wolfe and Montcalm. Parkers masterful storytelling brings to life the vibrant history of old Quebec, showcasing a skillful blend of plot, local color, and dramatic tension. The accompanying illustrations evoke...

Subtitled The Way to Win Him, this enchanting comedy unfolds in the vibrant backdrop of Paris, a delightful departure from the typical English settings of Farquhars other works, yet still crafted for an English audience. Upon its debut, the play faced a lukewarm reception, struggling to escape the shadow of condemnation. The audacious author even accused hidden adversaries of attempting to sabotage its success. Despite its rocky start, I wholeheartedly believe this play is as intricate and humorous as Farquhars finest creations. - Summary by ToddHW and Mrs. Inchbald, a critic from the 1800s

Three Sisters is a poignant exploration of the disillusionment faced by the privileged class in Russia, capturing the search for meaning in an increasingly complex world. The play centers around the Prozorov family, particularly the three sisters—Olga, Masha, and Irina—and their brother Andrei, who grapple with dissatisfaction and frustration in their small provincial town after years of longing for the vibrant life they left behind in Moscow. This city becomes a powerful symbol of their dreams and aspirations, representing happiness and fulfillment that seems perpetually out of reach. As ...

The Spanish Tragedy, or Hieronimo is Mad Again, is a groundbreaking Elizabethan tragedy penned by Thomas Kyd between 1582 and 1592. Renowned for its popularity and influence during its time, this play set the stage for a new genre in English theatre the revenge play or revenge tragedy. Its gripping narrative is filled with violent murders and features a striking personification of Revenge. The Spanish Tragedy has been referenced and even parodied by notable Elizabethan playwrights such as William Shakespeare, Ben Jonson, and Christopher Marlowe. Elements like the play-within-a-play to ensnare ...

Dive into the gripping narrative of Cleone, a play in five acts that weaves a tale of jealousy and betrayal, where friendships crumble under the weight of greed and desire. Inspired by the Legend of St. Genevieve, originally penned in French and translated into English by Sir William Lower a century ago, this tragedy explores the depths of human emotion and the consequences of deceit. Join narrator Joshua Seeger as he brings this timeless story to life.

Step into the world of Anton Chekhovs The Seagull, a poignant exploration of love, ambition, and the complexities of artistic expression. Written in 1895 and first performed in 1896, this timeless play delves into the tumultuous relationships between four central figures the aspiring actress Nina, the fading star Irina Arkadina, her son Konstantin Treplyov, an innovative playwright, and the celebrated author Boris Trigorin. As their lives intertwine, the characters grapple with their dreams and desires, revealing the deep-seated conflicts that arise in the pursuit of both love and art.

In 2012, the World Shakespeare Festival conducted a survey to discover the favorite plays of Britons. This captivating collection features 21 unforgettable scenes from Shakespeares most beloved works, paying tribute to the genius of the Bard as we commemorate the 400th anniversary of his passing in 1616—the Shakespeare Quadricentennial. Join us in this celebration of literary brilliance, brought to life by the talented performances of Beth Thomas, Michele Eaton, Sonia, Tony Addison, and John Burlinson, with editing by Michele Eaton and John Burlinson. - Summary by John Burlinson

The Way of the World, a brilliant play by British playwright William Congreve, made its debut in 1700 at the theatre in Lincolns Inn Fields, London. Celebrated as one of the finest examples of Restoration comedy, it continues to captivate audiences today. The story revolves around the two lovers, Mirabell and Millamant, who must navigate the complexities of love and social expectations to secure their marriage and Millamants substantial dowry. Their path is fraught with challenges, particularly from Millamants aunt, Lady Wishfort, a bitter woman intent on thwarting their union in favor of her ...

Step into the world of Rosmersholm, a profound play crafted by Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen in 1886. Often hailed as Ibsens masterpiece, rivaled only by The Wild Duck, this compelling narrative explores the tumultuous themes of social and political change. At its heart lies John Rosmer, whose moral dilemmas are intricately intertwined with the enigmatic Rebecca West, a free-thinking heroine who challenges the very foundations of Rosmers beliefs. As she seeks to dismantle the traditional ideals upheld by the ruling classes, the play raises haunting questions about the survival of Christian...

Experience the captivating charm of The Magistrate, a play that captivated audiences from its very first performance, filling the Court Theatre night after night for over a year with more than 300 showings. Its remarkable success extended beyond London, with three touring companies bringing the delightful comedy to life across the English provinces. In September 1885, the talented Mr. Pinero took his masterpiece to New York. With acts titled Act 1 The Family Skeleton, Act 2 It Leaves Its Cupboard, and Act 3 It Crumbles, how could you possibly resist such a whimsical tale? - Summary by ToddHW

Experience one of the most provocative plays from the reign of Charles I, Tis Pity Shes A Whore. This gripping tale explores the tragic consequences of an illicit affair between Italian siblings Giovanni and Annabella, whose forbidden love leads to a catastrophic chain of events. As suitors compete for Annabellas affection, a tangled web of betrayal and vengeance unfolds, culminating in a stunningly violent finale. (Summary by Elizabeth Barr)

Join LibriVox readers as they present the sixth volume of captivating monologues from the timeless works of William Shakespeare. This collection features 20 distinct pieces that showcase the playwrights unparalleled genius. Shakespeare (April 26, 1564 – April 23, 1616) is celebrated as one of the greatest playwrights in history, crafting a rich tapestry of genres including tragedy, comedy, and romance. Each monologue offers a unique emotional journey, whether it imparts a lesson, highlights Shakespeare’s wit, or evokes deep sadness. No matter your background, youre sure to find a monologue...

Discover the ninth volume of captivating one-act plays from the public domain, brought to life by a talented array of LibriVox members. Enjoy a dramatic evening featuring diverse characters and stories, from the comedic to the poignant, all narrated by skilled voices. Join us as we explore tales like The Fatal Message, The Good Samaritan, and The Dance of Death, each with its unique cast and compelling narrative. Perfect for fans of theater and storytelling alike!

Step into the world of Pandoras Box, a groundbreaking play by German dramatist Frank Wedekind that first captivated audiences in 1904. This gripping piece is the second part of his renowned Lulu plays, with the first being Earth Spirit from 1895. Together, they explore a society torn apart by the insatiable cravings of lust and greed. The play inspired G. W. Pabsts 1929 silent film adaptation and laid the foundation for Alban Bergs opera Lulu, which premiered posthumously in 1937. Originally conceived as a five-act drama subtitled A Monster Tragedy, Wedekind later divided it into two plays, ...

Dive into our 16th collection of captivating one-act plays, featuring a delightful mix of works that span from the comedic brilliance of Moliere to the insightful narratives of Jane Austen. This anthology presents 10 short plays designed to evoke laughter, tears, and contemplation—all within the span of a few enchanting moments. Join us for an entertaining journey through the realms of comedy and tragedy, curated for your enjoyment by ToddHW.

Experience the enchanting tale of Snow White and the seven dwarfs brought to life in this captivating play adaptation! Crafted by Jessie Braham White (the pen name of Winthrop Ames) from the beloved Grimm fairy tale, this performance promises to delight audiences of all ages. Join us for a magical journey filled with adventure, friendship, and the timeless battle between good and evil. - Summary by Rachel Cast List Narrator Zach K. Princess Snow White Kristin Gjerløw Queen Brangomar Beth Thomas Rosalys Roohi Haq Christabel Kimberly Krause Amelotte Bria Snow Ermengarde Rapunzelina Ursula ...

The Rover, or The Banishd Cavaliers, is a captivating play in two parts by the renowned English author Aphra Behn. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Carnival in Naples, the first part weaves together multiple storylines centered on the romantic escapades of a group of Englishmen. At the heart of the tale is Willmore, a charming but roguish naval captain who becomes infatuated with Hellena, a spirited young woman eager to explore love before her brother confines her to a convent. However, complications arise when Angellica Bianca, a celebrated courtesan, becomes enamored with Willmore and ...