Showing titles in Entertainment & Performing Arts

In Orange-Yellow Diamond, a struggling novelist finds himself caught in a web of intrigue as he seeks to make ends meet. His quest for a little extra cash plunges him into a captivating mystery filled with murder, theft, and unexpected romance. While the story explores complex themes, it does include some stereotypes of ethnic groups, presented not with malice but as a reflection of its time. Join us for a riveting journey through this tale of suspense and adventure, masterfully narrated by Linette Geisel and MaryAnn. (Summary by Linette Geisel)

Immerse yourself in the captivating tale of Don Juan, a legendary figure celebrated in both Spanish and Italian lore as a charming libertine. The essence of the Don Juan myth remains consistent across various interpretations a wealthy seducer who revels in winning the hearts of women from all walks of life. Among the many adaptations, Mozarts opera Don Giovanni, with a libretto by Lorenzo da Ponte, stands out as a quintessential rendition. Premiering in Prague in 1787, this masterpiece has inspired literary giants such as E. T. A. Hoffmann, Alexander Pushkin, Søren Kierkegaard, George Bernard...

Dive into the enchanting world of piano education with Piano and Song. This captivating book blends conversation with instruction, illuminating the art of teaching, learning, and performing on the piano. Written by the father of Clara Schumann and the esteemed teacher of Robert Schumann, this delightful guide offers insights and inspiration for musicians of all levels. (Summary by SandraG)

Vera; or, The Nihilists is a gripping melodramatic tragedy penned by Oscar Wilde, set against the tumultuous backdrop of Russia. Loosely inspired by the real-life story of Vera Zasulich, this play marks Wildes debut in the theatrical world. Although it premiered in the United Kingdom in 1880 and made its way to New York in 1882, it unfortunately struggled to find an audience and was short-lived in both locales. Today, it remains a rarity in theatrical revivals, making this rendition a unique opportunity to experience Wildes early work. (Summary by Wikipedia) Cast Peter Sabouroff/Baron Raff ...

Dive into this captivating anthology of ten one-act dramas, showcasing the brilliant works of renowned playwrights including Edward Goodman, Alice Gerstenberg, Arnold Bennett, John Galsworthy, Anton Chekhov, Frank Wedekind, Moliere, Theresa Helburn, John Kendrick Bangs, and Harold Brighouse. Each play offers a unique glimpse into the human experience, beautifully narrated by wildemoose.

Step into the world of Molières Monsieur de Pourceaugnac, a brilliant farce performed on October 6, 1669. Molière masterfully blends humor with sharp social commentary, delivering a comedic critique of the medical profession of his time. When Molière himself takes on the role of Monsieur de Pourceaugnac, the result is a delightful romp filled with intrigue, romance, and unforgettable characters. Join us for a theatrical experience that showcases Molières genius in farce, making this play one of his finest works. - Summary by The Translator

Upton Sinclair, renowned for his groundbreaking novel The Jungle, also made significant contributions to the world of theater. In The Machine, part of Sinclairs 1912 collection Plays of Protest, a group of Socialist activists exposes a wealthy young womans sheltered life, revealing the harsh realities of the society she inhabits. Join us as we explore this thought-provoking drama that challenges the status quo and invites reflection on social justice. (Summary by wildemoose) Cast Julia Patterson, a magazine writer Elizabeth Klett; Jack Bullen, a parlor Socialist Dale Burgess; Laura Hegan, ...

Step into the world of Bourgeois Gentleman, where the aspirations of a middle-class social climber collide with the realities of high society. Monsieur Jourdain, convinced that mastering the manners and arts of a true gentleman will elevate his status, becomes the perfect target for Molières sharp satire. This timeless piece, originally performed in 1670 before the court of Louis XIV and accompanied by music from Jean-Baptiste Lully, offers a witty critique of both the pretentious bourgeoisie and the snobbish aristocracy. In this spoken rendition, audiences will experience the humor and irony...

The History of King Lear is Nahum Tates remarkable adaptation of William Shakespeares timeless tragedy. Premiering in 1681—approximately seventy-five years after Shakespeares original—Tates version captivated audiences and largely supplanted Shakespeares work on the English stage until 1838. Unlike the original, Tates play concludes on a hopeful note, depicting Lear reclaiming his throne and Cordelia marrying Edgar, with Edgar joyfully proclaiming that truth and virtue shall at last succeed. This adaptation, structured in five acts like Shakespeares, diverges in scene count and is roughly ...

Immerse yourself in a captivating collection of cherished chapters and short stories, brought to life by the talented readers of LibriVox. Experience the original words of renowned authors as each character is voiced distinctly in our beloved Dramatic Reading style. This inaugural volume features a delightful array of works, including Annes Confession from *Anne of Green Gables* by Lucy Maud Montgomery, Coming Home from *Mates of Billabong* by Mary Grant Bruce, Scandal in Bohemia from *The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes* by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, and many more. With contributions from a ...

Dive into the captivating world of theater with LibriVoxs One-Act Play Collection 007. This collection features an array of one-act plays from the public domain, brought to life by a talented ensemble of LibriVox members. Experience the diverse narratives, ranging from heartfelt dramas to comedic gems, all narrated and performed by passionate voices. Each play is a unique exploration of human emotions and relationships, making this collection a delightful listen for theater enthusiasts and casual listeners alike.

Misalliance, a captivating play by George Bernard Shaw from 1910, delves into the complex romantic dynamics of an eclectic group gathered at a wealthy mans country estate during a summer weekend. At the heart of the intrigue is Hypatia Tarleton, the hosts spirited daughter and a quintessential Shaw heroine, who embodies his belief that in the dance of courtship, women are the relentless pursuers while men are often hesitant. Hypatia is the daughter of the newly affluent John Tarleton, who amassed his fortune in the unremarkable yet profitable underwear industry. Growing weary of the rigid ...

Step into the whimsical world of The Funeral or, Grief à-la-Mode, a comedic play penned in the summer of 1701. First performed shortly after its submission to Christopher Rich at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, this delightful piece was published by Jacob Tonson in December of the same year, though it bears a 1702 title page date. Featuring original music by William Croft, this play saw revivals from 1703 through 1799, captivating audiences with its unique plot and clever humor. Join us as we explore the intricacies of love, loss, and laughter in this enchanting tale, narrated by G.A. Aitken.

Following the success of Jonsons Every Man In His Humour, Every Man Out of His Humour presents a delightful blend of satire and wit. While its plot may seem light, it serves as a vibrant caricature of the societal norms of Jonsons time, delivered through sharp dialogue and a fierce sense of indignation at literary pretensions. This play elevates the art of dramatic satire, drawing inspiration from the classical ideals of comedy and echoing the brilliance of Aristophanes. Prepare for a captivating exploration of character and humor that remains timeless.

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of British dramatist Alfred Sutro with this delightful collection of five one-act plays. Experience the intriguing narratives of The Man in the Stalls, A Marriage Has Been Arranged…, The Man on the Kerb, The Open Door, and The Bracelet, all brought to life by a talented cast including Amanda Friday, Libby Gohn, Elizabeth Klett, mb, Bob Neufeld, Caprisha Page, Bruce Pirie, and Algy Pug. Enjoy a rich exploration of human relationships and social commentary, expertly narrated by Elizabeth Klett.

Join us as we journey back nearly three hundred years to a time when the pursuit of happiness seemed distant for many. Driven by persecution in England, a courageous group set sail on the storied Mayflower, embarking on a perilous voyage across the Atlantic to carve out a new home. This is the tale of their struggle and resilience, as they sought freedom and a brighter future.

Dive into the witty world of Molière with Bores, where the playwright himself muses on the rapid creation of comedy. In just a fortnight, he crafted a performance that showcases the myriad of bores found at both the Court and in the City. This clever satire unravels the absurdities of human nature and the art of theatrical storytelling, reminding us that sometimes, the journey is just as entertaining as the destination. Join us for a delightful exploration of character and comedy, as we laugh through the intricacies of social interactions and the quirks of society.

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

Dive into our 13th collection of captivating one-act plays, featuring a delightful mix of stories that span from ancient Greek sailors to early 1900s moonshiners. With 10 unique plays, youll find yourself laughing, crying, and pondering the human experience. While all plays included were published before 1923 and are in the Public Domain in the U.S., please note that some may still be under copyright in other countries due to the authors passing. Enjoy this rich tapestry of theatrical gems, brought to life by our talented cast. - Summary by ToddHW

When Sganarelle enlists the help of four fashionable doctors to cure his ailing daughter, chaos ensues as they bicker and argue instead of diagnosing her. Driven to desperation, Sganarelle takes to the streets, where he encounters a quack and discovers his daughters secret lover in disguise. Molière himself describes this work as a light-hearted impromptu, hastily composed at the request of the King in just five days. This spoken rendition captures the essence of the play, excluding the original songs and dances set to Lullys music. - Summary by ToddHW