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Based on Aphra Behns groundbreaking 1688 novel—one of the earliest works in the English language—Thomas Southernes adaptation of Oroonoko is celebrated by scholars as the key to reviving Behns legacy. During the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, this play outshone the original novel in popularity, captivating theatergoers with its poignant tale of love and tragedy surrounding the noble prince turned slave, Oroonoko, and his unwavering devotion to his beloved, Imoinda. In a striking twist, this adaptation presents Imoinda as a white woman, adding a layer of complexity to the narrative, ...

After spending two decades in solitude at her late husband’s secluded Hungarian castle, the English-born Princess Pannonia returns to London, eager to reconnect with her old friends who are all grappling with the challenges of middle age. As she navigates the complexities of rekindling romance—be it with a past flame or a new love—Pannonia discovers the possibilities that await her, including unexpected connections with those she once overlooked. Will she find love again, or will her heart remain elusive? - Summary by ToddHW

Dive into Sweethearts, an evocative play subtitled An Original Dramatic Contrast. Follow the journey of two neighbors, Harry and Jenny, as they part ways in Act 1, only to reunite 30 years later in Act 2 after Harrys return from India. Experience the emotional twists and turns of their lives across decades. - Summary by ToddHW

Join Albert, a dashing French pirate, and his crew as they find themselves shipwrecked on a desolate, rocky island after a fierce storm. There, they encounter a pair of castaways who unveil a remarkable secret—a mysterious tribe of women reminiscent of the Amazons inhabits the island. In a bold move, Albert proposes an alliance that promises mutual benefits, setting the stage for a delightful mix of romance and comedic chaos in a battle of the sexes. This captivating tale draws inspiration from William Shakespeares The Tempest and incorporates elements from real-life travel accounts, ...

Step into the raucous world of Ram Alley, or Merry Tricks, a bawdy comedy penned by Lording Barry, a contemporary of Shakespeare. This audacious production not only bankrupted Barry, forcing him into debtors prison, but also sparked a new life of piracy for him. Set in a seedy London lane where lawyers, lords, and ladies mingle with prostitutes and rogues, the play is a vibrant tapestry of wit and scandal. While a 19th-century editor bemoaned its gross passages and risqué innuendos, modern critics have uncovered the plays cleverness, depth, and humor. Though it has only seen three revivals ...

In this captivating comedy, Cowley presents a work that emerged from a peculiar moment of unease. Following its initial performance, critics noted the presence of audience members who seemed intent on disapproving, a challenge Cowley faced head-on. This 1786 play draws inspiration from Aphra Behns earlier work, Lucky Chance, shifting the setting from London to the enchanting landscapes of Portugal in an attempt to sidestep controversy surrounding its themes of marriage. Despite her efforts, Cowley found herself revising the script for subsequent performances. The published version featured in ...

Our American Cousin is a witty three-act farce penned by English playwright Tom Taylor in 1858. The story revolves around the hilariously awkward, yet refreshingly honest American, Asa Trenchard, who travels to England to claim his familys estate and meet his aristocratic relatives. While the play enjoyed immense popularity in its early years and captivated audiences throughout the latter part of the 19th century, it is most famously remembered as the performance attended by President Abraham Lincoln at Fords Theatre when he was tragically assassinated by actor and Confederate sympathizer John...

They came to Australia with little more than hope and a willingness to begin again, what they found was opportunity, reputation, and a legacy neither of them expected. As their farm prospers and their family steps into new worlds, military, political, and social, Norman Baines begins to sense a deeper pull: a history rising through him, waiting to be claimed. Set against the shifting landscape of Eildon in the beautiful Goulburn Valley in Country Victoria Australia in the 1950s and ’60s, this is a story of migration, identity, quiet power, and the mysteries we inherit without knowing.

Step into the whimsical world of The Importance of Being Earnest, a timeless comedy of manners that showcases the folly of social conventions. In this delightful tale, two charming young men adopt the name Ernest to win the hearts of their beloveds, leading to a series of hilarious misunderstandings and unexpected revelations. First performed on February 14, 1895, at Londons St. James’ Theatre, this play is celebrated by critics and audiences alike as one of the wittiest works in the English language. (Summary from Wikipedia.org)

Mrs. Warrens Profession, a provocative play by George Bernard Shaw, first graced the London stage in 1902, only to be quickly banned after two performances due to its controversial themes. The story revolves around a former prostitute turned madam who grapples with her estranged daughter’s disapproval. Shaw compellingly argues that prostitution stems not from moral failings but from economic necessity, while also critiquing the hypocrisy of a society that profits from illicit trades yet condemns them. This tension between societal values and personal choices made the play a target for ...

In the tranquil village near Pendell Manor, the infamous witch-hunter Matthew Hopkins arrives, determined to root out supposed sorcery and instill fear. But Cecile Howard and her courageous friends are not willing to let his superstitious tyranny go unchallenged. They band together to confront him, aiming to end his reign of terror and teach him a lesson he wont soon forget! - Summary by Kelly S. Taylor

Discover the intriguing tale of Mucedorus, a play often mistakenly attributed to Shakespeare in its 1610 edition. While it was housed in the library of Charles the Second, the authorship may actually belong to Robert Greene (1558 - 1592). Celebrated for its popularity, this play is referenced in the 1611 Beaumont and Fletcher work, The Knight of the Burning Pestle. Mucedorus was a tremendous success, captivating audiences with its whimsical charm akin to a nursery tale. Acted by traveling companies long after the Commonwealth, it impressively went through seventeen editions between 1598 and ...

In the wake of her grandfathers death, the Masterson family—a prestigious Bostonian clan—awaits the arrival of their cousin, Anna, who prefers to be called Oceana. Having spent most of her life on a sun-soaked tropical island with her father, Oceana embodies a free spirit that starkly contrasts with her conservative relatives values surrounding dress, romance, and entertainment. As tensions rise and patience wears thin, the allure of Oceana captivates a married man, leading to a clash of cultures and desires. Upton Sinclair, celebrated for his groundbreaking novel The Jungle, was also a ...

Why Marry? is a captivating comedy that delves into the complexities of marriage. The story follows a family striving to defend the sanctity of marriage to a free-spirited New Age woman. Can they persuade her that marriage is the pinnacle of a meaningful relationship, or will she maintain her view that it merely serves to divide two lovers? This thought-provoking play, which won the first Pulitzer Prize for Drama, challenges our perceptions of love and commitment. (Summary by Linette Geisel)

Dive into the intriguing world of Aldous Huxley, a masterful philosopher and novelist renowned for his thought-provoking works, including the iconic Brave New World. Beyond his most famous novel, Huxley’s literary repertoire spans poetry, short stories, and critical essays, often reflecting a darkly sardonic view shaped by the turmoil of post-World War I Europe. In Mortal Coils, youll discover a collection of four captivating short stories and a compelling play, featuring one of his most celebrated pieces, The Gioconda Smile. Join us on this literary journey, narrated by Kirsten Wever.

After three years of bending to every expectation, Rae Malgregor is on the brink of graduation—and shes had enough. The pursuit of her nursing career has been a relentless chase, but now the facade of perfection is slipping away. With her future on the line, she confronts the Superintendent, who is shocked by her sudden outburst. Meanwhile, the Senior Surgeon, stern and unyielding as granite, is both furious and oddly intrigued by Raes emotional turmoil. Will she find her true self amid the chaos? (Introduction by MaryAnn)

In this captivating tale, a young man finds himself unexpectedly broke and decides to turn his luck around by betting that he can speak only the truth for three weeks. As he navigates through love, mystery, and a series of misunderstandings, he quickly discovers that the unvarnished truth can lead to unforeseen and often hilarious consequences. This 1914 novel, rich with quirky characters and delightful plot twists, was transformed into a Broadway play in 1916 and adapted into six films, including a 1941 classic featuring Bob Hope and Paulette Goddard. Frederic S. Isham was a versatile writer ...

Set against the backdrop of impending World War I, Heartbreak House follows Ellie Dunn as she navigates a tangled web of love and societal expectations at one of Hesione Hushabye’s notorious dinner parties. With a scoundrel for a fiancé, a bumbling father, and a secret love for Hector, Hesione’s husband, Ellie finds herself in a farcical yet tragic predicament. This sharp and witty play serves as a biting satire of British society, blissfully unaware of the looming disaster. (Summary by Wikipedia)

Step into the whimsical world of The Imaginary Invalid (French Le Malade imaginaire), a captivating three-act comédie-ballet penned by the legendary French playwright Molière. First performed in 1673, this was the final masterpiece he created before his untimely passing. In a poignant twist of fate, Molière collapsed during his fourth performance as Argan on February 17 and died soon after. Join us for a delightful exploration of themes surrounding health, deception, and the absurdities of life. (Summary by Wikipedia)