Showing results by author "George Farquhar" in All Categories

A dazzling collection of comedies from the later Restoration period England's 'Glorious Revolution' of 1688 and the reign of new monarchs William and Mary signified a turning point for Restoration comedy with laws being passed to restrict playwrights' freedoms. The latter years are marked by a...

First performed in 1698 at the renowned Drury Lane Theatre, this lively play captivates with its intricate plot, diverse incidents, and sharp humor. The enthusiastic reception it garnered inspired George Farquhar to fully commit to a career in playwriting. Join us for a delightful exploration of romance and folly, as characters navigate love and ambition in a bustling London setting. - Summary by Alex.

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

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 ...

Dive into the witty world of George Farquhars The Constant Couple; or, A Trip to the Jubilee, a delightful comedy that showcases his literary brilliance. Born in 1678 as the son of a clergyman in Northern Ireland, Farquhar displayed a passion for writing from a young age. After studying at Trinity College, Dublin, he became known for his charm and cleverness, despite facing financial struggles. In 1700, he penned this engaging play to coincide with the Jubilee year in Rome, cleverly using the occasion to capture audiences’ attention. Though the connection to the festival is tenuous, the ...

Welcome to Twin-Rivals, a delightful comedy originally produced at Drury Lane on December 14, 1702. Celebrated for its accuracy, this play by Farquhar masterfully weaves a seemingly improbable plot with engaging dialogue and lively characters. The Younger Wouldbe, Mrs. Mandrake, and Teague leap off the page with such authenticity that they feel like real people rather than mere creations of the stage. While the play features an attempted rape that is treated with an unexpected levity, it also includes an epilogue that offers a sincere apology to women, reminding us that it’s all in good ...

Dive into a world of misadventure where two charming gentlemen, each down on their luck, adopt disguises as master and servant, believing that a well-placed dowry could be their ticket to fortune. Along the way, they encounter a band of bumbling highwaymen, a cunning innkeeper and his spirited daughter, and a country home filled with a drunken squire, his long-suffering wife, a medicine-practicing lady, and a stunning daughter. With such a colorful cast, you won’t want to miss the chaos that ensues! (Summary by ToddHW)

This delightful sequel to The Constant Couple, or A Trip to the Jubilee graced the stage at Drury Lane in 1701, captivating audiences much like its predecessor. With its sharp dialogue, clever commentary on contemporary fashion, and a lively narrative, the play showcases the vice and flippancy of its central character, resonating deeply with the theatergoers of the time. Sir Harry Wildair enjoyed a successful run, delighting audiences night after night.