Showing titles in Entertainment & Performing Arts

Othello weaves a captivating tale of love and betrayal, centering on a noble Moor and general in the Venetian army, who falls deeply in love with Desdemona, a stunning and virtuous Venetian woman. Their passionate union is threatened by the sinister schemes of Iago, Othellos envious ensign, who is determined to tear them apart. Join us for this compelling journey of romance and tragedy, beautifully narrated by Elizabeth Klett.

Noh (Nō), or Nogaku, is a captivating form of classical Japanese musical drama that has been enchanting audiences since the 14th century. Originating from the Sino-Japanese term for skill or talent, Noh was developed by the visionary duo Kanami and his son Zeami, making it the oldest major theatrical art still performed today. A traditional Noh performance typically features five Noh plays interspersed with comedic kyōgen pieces, though modern presentations often showcase a more abbreviated format of two Noh plays and one kyōgen. An okina play may open the performance, particularly during ...

Step back in time to a holy day in 1495 and immerse yourself in the captivating performance of Everyman, presented by the Guild of LibriVox Readers. Picture a lively crowd gathering around a temporary outdoor stage, eager to be entertained and enlightened. This classic morality play features a talented cast, including Narrator Annise, Messenger Elli, and the embodiment of Death portrayed by Denny Sayers, alongside a host of other unforgettable characters. Join us as we explore themes of life, death, and redemption in this thought-provoking tale. Let the Play Begin, summarized by Annise, ...

In our 18th collection, weve curated 10 delightful One Act Plays that promise to entertain and provoke thought. From the comedic brilliance of Molières 1663 work to Percival Wildes 1922 creation, this anthology spans genres and eras. Expect everything from a whimsical Victorian romantic comedy to a high-stakes game of chess with lethal consequences. These short theatrical gems are designed to make you laugh, cry, think, or perhaps all three! (Please note that Flanner passed away in 1997 and Wilde in 1953, so these plays may not be in the public domain in some countries.) - Summary by ToddHW

In a grand display befitting his illustrious reign, King Louis XIV envisioned an entertainment that would showcase the full splendor of the stage. To bring this ambitious vision to life, he chose a captivating tale of two rival princes competing in the picturesque vale of Tempe, where the Pythian Games are set to unfold. Their rivalry centers around the enchanting young princess, Eriphyle, and her mother, as they go to extravagant lengths to win their hearts through a whirlwind of gallantry and charm.

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!

Due to the enthusiastic response to my previous three series of Stories from the Operas, I am thrilled to present this newly compiled volume, which not only brings together those original tales but also introduces additional stories from the latest and most beloved operas that have recently graced the stages in England. This collection aims to distill the essence of each libretto into engaging short stories that are both easy to read and enjoyable. I hope this comprehensive volume will captivate not only opera enthusiasts but also anyone who appreciates the art of storytelling. The three ...

In Molières Misanthrope, we delve into the complex psyche of Alceste, a man who harbors disdain for humanity, including himself. Unlike typical farces filled with clichéd characters, this play offers a richly developed cast that challenges societal norms. As Alceste navigates the tumultuous waters of love and friendship, there lies the potential for genuine growth and transformation. Esteemed for its eloquent dialogue, intricate character portrayals, and captivating style, this comedy has rightfully earned its place among the great works of Molière, celebrated by literary scholars and ...

Dive into the world of theatre with LibriVoxs One-Act Play Collection 008, a captivating anthology featuring an array of one-act plays in the public domain, brought to life by talented LibriVox members. This collection includes engaging performances such as At A Garden Party narrated by Zames Curran, Cinderella narrated by KHand, and The Sacred Place featuring a dynamic cast. Each play showcases a unique story and a variety of characters, promising to entertain and inspire. Experience the magic of the stage from the comfort of your own home!

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.

Join Lieutenant Richard Haigh as he recounts his extraordinary journey from serving with the 2nd Royal Berkshire Infantry Regiment in the battle-scarred Somme region of 1916 to becoming a pioneer in tank warfare. When the British Army sought volunteers for the newly introduced tanks, Haigh eagerly stepped forward in December 1916. In this captivating narrative, he shares the rigorous training and pivotal battles he experienced until the wars conclusion in 1918. Recognized for his bravery with the Military Cross in 1916, Haighs story is one of courage and resilience, culminating in his ...

Join Robin Hood and his Merry Men in the heart of Sherwood Forest on a fateful May Day, where they eagerly await a traveler to share their evening meal. Enter a troubled knight and his lovely daughter, Marian, who find themselves in dire straits, unable to pay their debts to the ruthless Sheriff of Nottingham. Meanwhile, the Sheriff plots with the sinister Baron of the Black Castle to put an end to the legendary outlaw once and for all! This engaging rendition of the Robin Hood tale is crafted as a lively play, perfect for both children and adults to enjoy. (Summary by Rachel)

Experience the power of Shakespeares words with this captivating collection of monologues, presented by LibriVox readers. This ninth volume features 20 remarkable pieces drawn from the plays of the genius playwright, William Shakespeare (April 26, 1564 – April 23, 1616), who is often hailed as the greatest playwright in history. His works span a variety of genres—tragedy, comedy, romance, and more—ensuring that each monologue offers something unique. Whether theyre poignant lessons, delightful humor, or moments of profound sadness, these monologues resonate differently with each listener...

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 ...

In this engaging play, the author draws upon his own experiences as a recruiting officer, setting the scene in the charming town of Shrewsbury. He dedicates the work to all friends round the Wrekin, expressing gratitude for the warm hospitality that transformed what could be a grueling recruiting service into a joyous adventure. The life of Farquhar, a man of many exploits, is rich with tales of mischief and mishaps—from his expulsion from Dublins college for irreverent wit to a near-tragic incident on stage with a real sword. As a successful dramatist and a beloved military figure, whether ...

Agatha, Gwen, Clare, and Elfie have always been led to believe they would inherit their beloved aunts house. But upon her passing, the unexpected twist reveals that the entire estate has been left to their insufferable cousin, James. Faced with this shocking turn of events, the four friends must navigate their feelings of betrayal and uncertainty. Will the cryptic verses from Nannie hold the key to their fate? Summary by Esther ben Simonides.

In a captivating tale that intertwines magic and enlightenment, Caliban—the wild son of the witch Sycorax and the malevolent frog-tiger god Setebos—embarks on a quest for knowledge and civility under the guidance of the enigmatic magician Prospero and his gentle daughter, Miranda. As he navigates a world filled with extraordinary visions (including scenes from Shakespeares own plays), poetry, music, and dance, Calibans journey unfolds into a profound exploration of enlightenment amidst the seductive pull of temptation. Serving as both a thematic companion and a potential spiritual prequel ...

Dive into the captivating world of The Reign of King Edward the Third, an Elizabethan play printed anonymously in 1596. Often attributed, at least in part, to the genius of William Shakespeare, this play showcases the dramatic flair of the era, with scholars increasingly supporting its Shakespearean connection, while Thomas Kyd likely contributed to its creation. The narrative is rich with jabs at Scotland and its people, which sparked protests from Queen Elizabeths agent in Edinburgh, revealing the contentious nature of its portrayal. The play was notably excluded from the First Folio ...

Join us for the fourth installment of the Shakespeare Monologues Collection, brought to life by talented LibriVox readers. This volume features 20 captivating monologues from the works of the legendary William Shakespeare (April 26, 1564 – April 23, 1616), widely regarded as the greatest playwright in history. Shakespeares unparalleled ability to weave narratives across genres—tragedy, comedy, romance, and more—ensures that each play offers a unique voice. Within these monologues, youll find everything from poignant lessons and profound character insights to humor and heartache, each ...

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.