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The Inconstant

Subtitled "The Way to Win Him:, this play is placed in Paris - a change from many others of Farquhar's plays which used English settings - though still presented to the same English audience. "This comedy ... had a reception, on the first night of its appearance, far inferior to that of his other productions. It was, with difficulty, saved from condemnation; and the author ... boldly charged some secret enemies with having attempted its destruction." (I can sympathize with the author; I think this play is as complex and funny as all his rest. - thw) - Summary by ToddHW and Mrs Inchbald, a critic of the 1800s Cast list: Old Mirabel: ToddHW Young Mirabel: Tomas Peter Captain Duretete: Craig Franklin Dugard: Nemo Petit: Eva Davis Bravo 1: alanmapstone Bravo 2: tovarisch Bravo 3: Chuck Williamson Bravo 4: Son of the Exiles Oriana: Leanne Yau Bisarre: Sonia Lamorce: Rapunzelina Lady: Availle Page: Sandra Schmit Stage Directions: Kalynda Edited By: ToddHW

5 episodes

Paul Jones

Dumas's play talks of American Naval Hero John Paul Jones's romantic entanglements and affairs of honor ashore in France. He later converted it to a novel. - Summary by ToddHW Cast list: The Marquis D'Auray: Amy Gramour The Marchioness, his wife: Sonia Count Emanuel, their child: Tomas Peter Margaret, their child: Leanne Yau Baron De Lectoure: Nemo Paul Jones: ToddHW Louis Achard: Thomas A. Copeland Mr. De La Jarry: Roger Melin Mr. De Nozay: RecordingPerson Notary: Zames Curran Laffeuille, valet to the Marchioness: Son of the Exiles Jasmin, valet to Emanuel: Eva Davis Stage Directions: Sandra Schmit Edited by: ToddHW

5 episodes

The Schoolmistress

The second of Pinero's farces, following the wildly successful The Magistrate, and likewise a hit. The Schoolmistress has a secret: "Think of the deception I am practising upon dear Vere! Think of the people who believe in the rigid austerity of Caroline Dyott, Principal of Volumnia College. Think of the precious confidence reposed in me by the parents and relations of twenty-seven innocent pupils. Give an average of eight and a half relations to each pupil; multiply eight and a half by twenty-seven and you approximate the number whose trust I betray this night!" The three acts are subtitled 1 - The Mystery, 2 - The Party, and 3 - The Nightmare. - Summary by ToddHW Cast list: The Honorable Vere Queckett: Peter Tucker Miss Dyott, Principal of Volumnia College for Daughters of Gentlemen: Sonia Rear-Admiral Archibald Rankling, C.B., of H.M. Flagship Pandora: Son of the Exiles Mrs Rankling: Availle Dinah: Leanne Yau Mr Reginald Paulover: Tomas Peter Peggy Hesslerigge, an Articled Pupil: Eva Davis Lieutenant John (Jack) Mallory, of H.M. Flagship Pandora: Nemo Mr Saunders, Mr Mallory's Nephew, of the Training Ship Dexterous: Chuck Williamson Gwendoline Hawkins: Kieren Metts Ermyntrude Johnson: Kalynda Mr Otto Bernstein, a Popular Composer: alanmapstone Tyler, a Servant: Rob Board Jane Chipman: EikyTavie Goff: RecordingPerson Jaffray: Sandra Schmit Stage Directions and Editing by: ToddHW

3 episodes

The School for Husbands

In 1661 and 1662 Moliere presented the plays The School for Husbands (this one) and then The School for Wives. "The central situations of the two have much in common: the arbitrary and jealous lover to whom circumstances have given almost the authority of a husband: the simple ward rescued from physical constraint by the unfettered cunning of love." In between writing the two plays he got married. Listen to both and see if this comedic genius of the farce changed his attitude. - Summary by ToddHW and The Translator Cast list: Sganarelle: Nemo Ariste, his brother: ToddHW Valere, lover to Isabella: Peter Tucker Ergaste, servant to Valere: Tomas Peter A Magistrate: alanmapstone A Notary: Zames Curran Isabella: Sonia Leonor, her sister: Leanne Yau Lisette, maid to Isabella: Availle Stage Directions: Sandra Schmit Edited by: ToddHW

3 episodes

The School for Wives

In 1661 and 1662 Moliere presented the plays The School for Husbands and then The School for Wives (this one). "The central situations of the two have much in common: the arbitrary and jealous lover to whom circumstances have given almost the authority of a husband: the simple ward rescued from physical constraint by the unfettered cunning of love." In between writing the two plays Moliere got married. Listen to both and see if this comedic genius of the farce changed his attitude. - Summary by ToddHW and The Translator Cast list: Arnolphe, alias Monsieur De La Souche: Peter Tucker Chrysalde, friend to Arnolphe: ToddHW Horace, in love with Agnes: Tomas Peter Enrique, brother-in-law of Chrysalde: Chuck Williamson Oronte, father to Horace and a great friend of Arnolphe: Nemo Alain, a country fellow, servant to Arnolphe: alanmapstone A Notary: Zames Curran Agnes, a young innocent girl, brought up by Arnolphe: Leanne Yau Georgette, a country-woman, servant to Arnolphe: Sonia Stage Directions: Availle Edited By: ToddHW

5 episodes

One-Act Play Collection 010

Tenth volume of one-act plays in the public domain read by a variety of LibriVox members. Mosada Narrator: Availle Mosada: Sonia Ebremar: Tomas Peter Cola: Charlotte Duckett First Inquisitor: Anusha Iyer Second Inquisitor: Michele Eaton First Monk: KHand Second Monk: Chuck Williamson The Belles of Canterbury Narrator: Kalynda Freshman:Twinkle Sophomore: DrPGould Junior: TJ Burns Senior:Leanne Yau Wife of Bath: Sonia Prioress: KHand First Nun: Michele Eaton Second Nun: Tomas Peter Emily: Eva Davis Hippolyta: Availle Griselda: PattyS The People Narrator: Zames Curran Edward Wills: ToddHW Oscar Tripp: Chuck Williamson The Artist: Availle Sara: Sonia Tom Howe: RecordingPerson The Boy from Georgia: DrPGould The Woman from Idaho: Michele Eaton The Earnest Approach: Larry Wilson The Anarchist: Tomas Peter The Light Touch: SaraHale The Philosopher: alanmapstone The Man from the Cape: David Olson Close the Book Narrator: Zames Curran Peyton Root: Chuck Williamson Jhansi: Kymberli Welch Mrs Root: Michele Eaton Mrs Peyton: Garrett Goodison Uncle George: ToddHW Bessie Root: Sonia State Senator Byrd: Nemo Mrs State Senator Byrd: Eva Davis Cathleen ni Houlihan Narrator: Zames Curran Peter Gillane: RecordingPerson Michael Gillane: Garrett Goodison Patrick Gillane: Tomas Peter Bridget Gillane: Dafni Ma Delia Cahel: SaraHale The Poor Old Woman: TJ Burns The Proving of Abraham Narrator: Zames Curran Prologue and Epilogue: Michele Eaton Abraham: Larry Wilson Isaac: Beth Thomas Messenger: David Purdy Household Gods Narrator: Chuck Williamson Crassus: Tomas Peter Adela: Michele Eaton Alicia: Sonia A Statue of Pan: Zames Curran A Faun: Eva Davis Box and Cox Narrator: Devorah Allen Mr Box: DrPGould Mr Cox: Jason in Panama Mrs Bouncer: Beth Thomas What Christmas Did for Jerusha Grumble Narrator: David Olson Isabel: SaraHale Hazel: Devorah Allen Julia: Tabea Jessie: Michele Eaton Jerusha: MaryAnn The Fourth Act Narrator: April Walters Sir Phillip A Courcy: Tomas Peter Mr Robert Valpas: alanmapstone Miss Daphne Alloa: Devorah Allen Voice from the Corner: DrPGould

10 episodes

The Impromptu of Versailles

The setup here is that Moliere and his troupe have been sent for by the King to come perform at Versailles. But instead of the piece they had prepared, the King has just asked for an entirely new piece - to be ready later that same day! So all the action of the play takes place backstage as Moliere has to come up with a story and the troupe has to select and prepare roles in a mad panic. Many of the comments in the banter between actors concern personages from Moliere's time - we don't necessarily know them but the biting of the satire still comes clearly through. - Summary by ToddHW Cast list: Moliere, a ridiculous Marquis: Thomas A. Copeland Brecourt, a man of Quality: Tomas Peter La Grange, a ridiculous Marquis: Nemo Du Croisy, a poet: alanmapstone La Thorilliere, a fidgetty Marquis: Chuck Williamson Bejart and the Busybodies: ToddHW Mademoiselle Duparc, a ceremonious Marchioness: Sonia Mademoiselle Bejart, a prude: Beth Thomas Mademoiselle Debrie, a sage coquette: Eva Davis Mademoiselle Moliere, a satirical wit: Sandra Schmit Mademoiselle Du Croisy, a whining plague: Availle Mademoiselle Herve, a conceited chambermaid: Leanne Yau Stage Directions: Zames Curran Edited by: ToddHW

1 episodes

The Misanthrope

Alceste, the misanthrope, hates everyone including himself. But unlike in many pure farces with their cliche stock characters, the characters here are much more well rounded, and who knows - Alceste might actually grow and change throughout the play. "Those who admired noble thoughts, select language, accurate deliniations of character, and a perfect and entertaining style, placed this comedy from the very beginning where it is generally put, with the common consent of all students of sound literature, in the foremost rank of the good comedies of Moliere." - Summary by Translator and ToddHW Cast list: Alceste, in love with Celimene: Nemo Philinte, his friend: ToddHW Oronte, in love with Celimene: alanmapstone Celimene, beloved by Alceste: Leanne Yau Eliante, her cousin: Sonia Arsinoe, Celimene's friend: Eva Davis Acaste, Marquis: Tomas Peter Clitandre, Marquis: Sean Lally Basque, servant to Celimene: PaulHW Dubois, servant to Alceste: RecordingPerson An Officer of the Marechaussee: Roger Melin Stage Directions: KHand Edited by: ToddHW

5 episodes

The Devil is an Ass

An inferior devil, Pug, asks Satan to send him to Earth to tempt men to Evil. But when Pug arrives in 1616 London and sets himself at the Squire Fabian Fitzdottrel, he finds Fabian currently beset by con men, cheats, connivers, thieves, villains, and seductresses - a delightful mix of cunning criminality in a world that already has far more vice in it than anything Pug is prepared to offer. - Summary by ToddHW Cast list: Satan, the great Devil: alanmapstone Pug, the less Devil: Sonia Iniquity, the Vice: Nemo Fabian Fitzdottrel, a Squire of Norfolk: Tomas Peter Meercraft, the Projector: Hamlet Everill, his Champion: Algy Pug Wittipol, a young Gallant: ToddHW Eustace Manly, his Friend: Chuck Williamson Engine, a Broker: Rob Board Trains, the Projector's Man: Jason in Panama Thomas Gilthead, a Goldsmith: Caleb Tol Plutarchus, his Son: Eva Davis Sir Paul Eitherside, a Lawyer, and Justice: Beth Thomas Ambler, Gentle-Usher to Lady Tailbush: Kurt Sledge, a Smith, the Constable: Joseph Tabler Shackles, Keeper of Newgate: Bruce Kachuk Mrs. Frances Fitzdottrel: Sandra Schmit Lady Eitherside: Leanne Yau Lady Tailbush, the Lady Projectress: Linda Olsen Fitak Pitfall, her Woman: Availle Serjant: Roger Melin Keeper 1: Victor Villarraza Keeper 2: Adriana Sacciotto Keeper 3: TJ Burns Keeper 4: Owen Cook Stage Directions: sawasawaya and: Elizabeth Martinson Edited By: ToddHW

5 episodes

Modern Monologues

The monologue is a character study in little; the apotheosis of a chosen individuality. All the little studies in this book have stood the test of trial before varied audiences. - Summary by Marjorie Benton Cooke, Author Edited by: Eva Davis and linny Cast (of sketches with more than 2 readers): Sketch 5 - What the janitor heard Stage Directions: Eva DavisMrs Northrup, Hulda: Linda Olsen FitakMr Reynolds: NemoBobby: Tomas Peter Sketch 9 - When shades assemble Stage Directions: Tomas PeterLady Macbeth, Portia: Linda Olsen FitakJuliet: Leanne YauOphelia: Eva Davis Sketch 10 - Over the coffee-cups Stage Directions: Tomas PeterMr Meek: NemoMrs Tenbrook: SoniaCarol Kendal: Eva Davis Sketch 11 - From long ago to now Stage Directions: TriciaG Reginald, Billy Norton: Tomas PeterAngelina, Joan Dascott: TJ Burns Sketch 14 - Below stairs Stage Directions: Eva DavisButler: Tomas PeterMaid: Linda Olsen Fitak Sketch 18 - At mme Newberry’s Stage Directions: Tomas PeterMrs Payson de Sleyster, Elmira Beechum: Linda Olsen FitakStuttering young woman, Dressy young woman: Emma CharlottePearl the Child Wonder: TJ Burns Sketch 19 - How it happened Stage Directions: Tomas PeterMiss Audrey Gay: Emma CharlotteMr John Marvel: Chuck Williamson Sketch 20 - When morning breaks Stage Directions, Jimmy: NemoMother: Emma CharlotteMolly: Eva Davis Sketch 21 - Who’s afraid? Stage Directions, Jimmy: NemoMother: Emma CharlotteMolly: Eva Davis

23 episodes

Mademoiselle De Belle Isle

"The refined and fashionable audiences who... used to applaud the play of Mademoiselle de Belle Isle… would, in all probability, have objected to an English version of Dumas' clever play, upon the score of its immorality. It is not for me to determine whether the aristocratic audiences at the St James Theater did not understand what they heard, or whether the French language has a special charm for rendering inoffensive what plain English fails to recommend." - Summary by The Translator Cast list: The Duke de Richelieu: Tomas Peter The Duke D'Aumont: Craig Franklin The Chevalier D'Auvray: Kurt The Chevalier D'Aubigny: Jason in Panama Chamillac: alanmapstone The Abbe de Rosanne: ToddHW The Marchioness de Valcour: Sonia Mademoiselle Gabriella de Belle Isle: Devorah Allen Mariette: Leanne Yau Footman: Roger Melin Servant: Owen Cook Stage Directions: Sandra Schmit Editor: ToddHW

5 episodes

Love and a Bottle

This play was produced in 1698 at Drury Lane Theatre. From the bustle of its plot, the variety of its incidents, and the sustained humour of its dialogue, it met with so favourable a reception that Farquhar henceforth devoted himself to writing for the stage. - Summary by Alex. Charles Ewald Cast list: Roebuck, an Irish Gentleman, of a wild roving temper, newly come to London: Algy Pug Lovewell, his friend, sober and modest, in love with Lucinda: ToddHW Mockmode, a young Squire, come newly from the University, and setting up for a Beau: Tomas Peter Lyric, a Poet: Jason in Panama Pamphlet, a Bookseller: Availle Rigadoon, a Dancing-Master: Son of the Exiles Nimblewrist, a Fencing-Master: Kurt Club, Servant to Mockmode: TriciaG Brush, Servant to Lovewell: Craig Franklin Lucinda, a Lady of considerable Fortune: Leanne Yau Leanthe, Sister to Lovewell, in love with Roebuck, and disguised as Lucinda's Page: Sonia Trudge, Whore to Roebuck: Linda Olsen Fitak Widow Bullfinch, Landlady to Mockmode, Lyric, and Trudge: TJ Burns Pindress, Attendant and Confidante to Lucinda: Jessie Percival Bailiff 1: Roger Melin Bailiff 2: Larry Wilson Cripple: alanmapstone Porter: Owen Cook Boy: Larry Wilson Mask 1: Nemo Mask 2: Sandra Schmit Servant: Eva Davis Stage Directions: Tom Penn Editor: ToddHW

5 episodes

Dandy Dick

“Dandy Dick” was the third of the farces which Mr. Pinero wrote for the old Court Theatre—a series of plays which, besides giving playgoers a fresh source of laughter, and the English stage a new order of comic play, brought plentiful prosperity to the joint management of Mr. Arthur Cecil and the late Mr. John Clayton. - Summary by (From Introduction) Cast list: The Very Reverend Augustin Jedd, DD, Dean of St Marvells: ToddHW Sir Tristram Mardon, Bart: Son of the Exiles Major Tarver, -th Hussars, quartered at Durnstone near St Marvells: Craig Franklin Mr. Darbey, -th Hussars, quartered at Durnstone near St Marvells: Jason in Panama Blore, Butler at the Deanery: Tomas Peter Noah Topping, Constable at St. Marvells: alanmapstone Hatcham, Sir Tristram's groom: Roger Melin Georgiana Tidman, a widow, the Dean's sister: Sonia Salome, Dean's daughter: Leanne Yau Sheba, Dean's daughter: Devorah Allen Hannah Topping, formerly in service at the Deanery: Availle Stage Directions: Sandra Schmit Edited by: ToddHW

3 episodes

The Physician In Spite of Himself

The Physician In Spite of Himself … is written in a most unbounded spirit of mirth, the matrimonial breezes wafting a certain amount of refreshing coolness throughout it all. The way in which Sganarelle is dubbed, or rather drubbed a doctor, is highly amusing; and the cure of the dumb girl, and the use which she makes of her recovered speech, contains a philosophical lesson which may be sometimes applied to the way in which nouveaux riches spread their newly acquired wealth. The learned and anatomical disquisitions between Sganarelle and Geronte are also very entertaining, as well as the growth of greed in the rustic physician. - Summary by The Translator Cast list: Geronte, father to Lucinda: ToddHW Leandre, Lucinda's lover: aravagarwal Sganarelle, husband to Martine: Jason in Panama Monsieur Robert, Sganarelle's neighbor: Roger Melin Lucas, husband to Jacqueline: Tomas Peter Valere, Geronte's servant: alanmapstone Thibaut, peasant: Son of the Exiles Perrin, his son: Owen Cook Lucinda, Geronte's daughter: Leanne Yau Martine, Sganarelle's wife: Devorah Allen Jacqueline, nurse at Geronte's, and Lucas' wife: Sonia Stage Directions: Sandra Schmit Editor: ToddHW

3 episodes

Ollanta - Drama Quichua en Tres Actos y en Verso

Ollantay u Ollántay es un drama escrito originalmente en quechua colonial, considerado por unos como de origen incaico —y como tal la más antigua y rotunda expresión de la literatura quechua—; y por otros como de origen hispano colonial. El más antiguo manuscrito de esta obra perteneció al sacerdote Antonio Valdés (siglo XVIII), a quien por algún tiempo se consideró su autor original; pero existen otros manuscritos divergentes que han hecho pensar en la existencia de una fuente común, de más remoto origen. La posición más aceptada actualmente es que la historia contada en el drama es de origen inca, que fue conservada durante mucho tiempo como tradición oral, hasta que en la época colonial fue adaptada para su escenificación teatral según el molde occidental, aunque continúa en el anonimato el autor o autores de tal adaptación. El general de los ejércitos incas, Ollantay, es un guerrero de origen plebeyo que por sus excelentes servicios ha sido elevado a la nobleza de privilegio y al que se le han concedido numerosos premios. Pero se enamora de Cusi Coyllur (Lucero Alegre o Estrella), hija del Inca Pachacútec (El restaurador del mundo), amor prohibido, pues de acuerdo a las leyes de Imperio, nadie, salvo otro de linaje inca, puede casarse con una princesa. No obstante, Ollantay, enceguecido por el amor, se une a Cusi Coyllur, secreto que comparte la reina madre Ccoya o Anahuarqui. Pese a los augurios en contra que le da el Huillac Uma o sumo sacerdote, Ollantay decide pedir al Inca que apruebe formalmente su unión con Cusi Coyllur. Pachacútec le recuerda a Ollantay su origen humilde y le señala su increíble audacia de querer “subir demasiado alto”; luego, enfurecido, lo expulsa de su presencia. Cusi Coyllur es encerrada en un calabozo de la casa de mujeres escogidas o Acllahuasi, donde deberá expiar su falta; allí dará a luz una niña, fruto de su amor con Ollantay, a la cual llamará Ima Súmac (Bella Niña), desde entonces ocurren diversos hechos que desencadenan en apasionados enfrentamientos entre el Inca y el que fuera su mejor guerrero: Ollanta. Summary by Ricardo Palma Ollantay or Ollantay is a drama originally written in colonial Quechua, considered by some to be of Inca origin - and as such the oldest and most outspoken expression of Quechua literature; and by others as of Hispanic colonial origin. The oldest manuscript of this work belonged to the priest Antonio Valdes (eighteenth century), who for some time was considered its original author; but there are other divergent manuscripts that have made us think of the existence of a common source, of more remote origin. The most accepted position today is that the story told in the drama is of Inca origin, that was conserved for a long time as oral tradition until in colonial times it was adapted for its theatrical staging according to the western mold, although the author of this adaptation remains unknown. The General of the Inca armies, Ollantay, is a warrior of plebeian origin who has been elevated to the nobility of privilege for his excellent services and who has been awarded numerous prizes. He falls in love with Cusi Coyllur, daughter of the Inca Pachacútec (The Restorer of the World). Their love is forbidden, since according to the laws of Empire no one except one of Inca lineage can marry a princess. Nevertheless, Ollantay, blinded by this love, is united to Cusi Coyllur, a secret shared by the queen mother Ccoya or Anahuarqui. In spite of the auguries against him by the Huillac Uma, Ollantay decides to ask the Inca to formally approve his union with Cusi Coyllur. Pachacútec reminds Ollantay of his humble origins and points out his incredible audacity to want to "climb too high"; then, enraged, expels him from his presence. Cusi Coyllur is imprisoned in the house Acllahuasi, where she must atone for her fault; there she gives birth to a girl, the fruit of her love with Ollantay, whom she will call Ima Súmac (Bella Niña). These events trigger passionate clashes between the Inca and his best warrior: Ollanta. Summary by Ricardo Palma

35 episodes

The Second Mrs. Tanqueray

Aubrey Tanqueray marries a woman with a past which he believes will not matter in society. "I know you think me a fool, Cayley—you needn't infer that I'm a coward into the bargain. No! I know what I'm doing, and I do it deliberately, defiantly. I'm alone; I injure no living soul by the step I'm going to take; and so you can't urge the one argument which might restrain me. Of course, I don't expect you to think compassionately, fairly even, of the woman whom I—whom I am drawn to— [] Thanks. I've heard you say that from forty till fifty a man is at heart either a stoic or a satyr. [] I am neither. I have a temperate, honourable affection for Mrs. Jarman. She has never met a man who has treated her well—I intend to treat her well. That's all. And in a few years, Cayley, if you've not quite forsaken me, I'll prove to you that it's possible to rear a life of happiness, of good repute, on a—miserable foundation." - Summary From the Play Cast list: Aubrey Tanqueray: ToddHW Paula Tanqueray, his wife: Beth Thomas Ellean Tanqueray, Aubrey's daughter: Leanne Yau Cayley Drummle: Tomas Peter Mrs. Cortelyon: Sonia Captain Hugh Ardale: Jason in Panama Gordon Jayne, MD: Son of the Exiles Frank Misquith, QC, MP: DrPGould Sir George Orreyed, Bart: alanmapstone Lady Orreyed: TJ Burns Morse: Jessie Percival Servant: Roger Melin Stage Directions: Availle Edited by: ToddHW

4 episodes

The Cabinet Minister

Mr. Pinero holds that farce should treat of probable people placed in possible circumstances, but regarded from a point of view which exaggerates their sentiments and magnifies their foibles. In this light it is permitted to this class of play, not only to deal with ridiculous incongruities of incident and character, but to satirise society, and to wring laughter from those possible distresses of life which might trace their origin to fallacies of feeling and extravagances of motive. - Summary by Introduction Cast list: Right Honorable Sir Julian Twombley, GCMG, MP (Secretary of State for the ____ Department): ToddHW Lady Twombley: Sonia Brooke Twombley (their son): Tomas Peter Imogen (their daughter): Leanne Yau Dowager Lady Countess of Drumdurris: TJ Burns Lady Euphemia Vibart (her daughter): Devorah Allen Earl of Drumdurris (in the Guards): Scott Kelley Egidia, Countess of Drumdurris: Jael Baldwin Lady Macphail: Beth Thomas Sir Colin Macphail of Ballocheevin (her son): Chuck Williamson Valentine White (Lady Twombley's nephew): Kurt Honorable Mrs. Gaylustre (a young widow trading as Mauricette et Cie, 17A Plunkett Street, Mayfair: Linda Olsen Fitak Mr. Joseph Lebanon: Son of the Exiles Mr. Melton (Sir Julian's Private Secretary): Craig Franklin The Munkittrick: alanmapstone Miss Munkittrick: Eva Davis Probyn (a servant): DrPGould Angele, a French nurse: Sandra Schmit Stage Directions: Larry Wilson Edited by: ToddHW

4 episodes

Love is the Best Doctor

Four most fashionable doctors are called in by Sganarelle to cure his daughter, but instead they argue about everything and Sganarelle is driven to the streets where he finds a quack and his daughter's disguised lover. Moliere: "This is only a slight impromptu, a simple pencil sketch, which it has pleased the King to have made into an entertainment. It is the most hastily composed of all those written by order of his Majesty; and when I say that it was sketched, written, learned, and acted in five days, I shall only be speaking the truth." This is a spoken version, without the original songs and dances to the music of Lully. - Summary by ToddHW Cast list: Comedy: TJ Burns Music: Rapunzelina The Ballet: Availle Sganarelle, father to Lucinde: Larry Wilson Clitandre, in love with Lucinde: Tomas Peter Monsieur Guillaume, dealer in hangings: Victor Villarraza Monsieur Josse, goldsmith: Craig Franklin Monsieur Tomes, a physician: Sonia Monsieur Desfonandres, a physician: ToddHW Monsieur Macroton, a physician: Son of the Exiles Monsieur Bahis, a physician: DrPGould Monsieur Filerin, a physician: alanmapstone A Notary: Zames Curran Lucinde, Sganarelle's daughter: Jessie Percival Aminta, Sganarelle's neighbor: SaraHale Lucretia, Sganarelle's niece: Leanne Yau Lisette, maid to Lucinde: Eva Davis A Quack: Nemo Stage Directions: Sandra Schmit Editor: ToddHW

3 episodes

The Twin-Rivals

"This comedy was produced at Drury Lane on December 14, 1702. It is the most accurate of all Farquhar's productions. The plot, though improbable, is well constructed and sustained, the dialogue lively and entertaining, whilst the characters of the Younger Wouldbe, Mrs. Mandrake, and Teague are so naturally drawn as to appear real personages, dependent little upon the art of the actor or the imagination of the author for their creation." (Critic Alex. Charles Ewald) Note that there is an attempted rape in the play, which gets downplayed - the woman even partially blames herself, saying "this late adventure has taught me how dangerous it is to provoke a gentle man by ill usage." However -- and surprisingly considering this is from 1702 and not 2018 -- the epilogue then provides an apology to women, and a reminder that this is just a play -- and a comedy at that -- and that we shouldn't take the actions too seriously, but with a grain of salt. It's entertainment, not so much a social commentary (TJ and ToddHW) Cast list: Hermes Wouldbe, elder Son and heir to Lord Wouldbe: ToddHW Benjamin Wouldbe, his Brother: Tomas Peter Richmore, a gay dissipated Rake: Kurt Captain Trueman, his Nephew, and friend to Hermes Wouldbe: Jim Gallagher Subtleman, an Attorney: Son of the Exiles Fairbank, a Goldsmith: Devorah Allen Balderdash, a Vintner: Nemo Clearaccount, Steward to Lord Wouldbe: alanmapstone Comic, a Poet: Availle Jack, Valet to Benjamin Wouldbe: graceahlin Teague, Valet to Hermes Wouldbe: Monika M. C. Frisure, Valet to Benjamin Wouldbe: April6090 Constance, betrothed to Hermes Wouldbe (also Prologue): Eva Davis Aurelia, her Cousin, beloved by Captain Trueman: TJ Burns Mrs. Clearaccount, Wife to Clearaccount: Leanne Yau Mrs. Mandrake, a Midwife and Procuress: Sonia Alderman: Larry Wilson Constable: Foon Fourth Gentleman: Stefan Von Blon Fifth Gentleman: Foon Mob: April6090 Maid: Availle Footman: Roger Melin Servant: Adriana Sacciotto Stage Directions: Sandra Schmit Edited by: ToddHW

5 episodes

The Bores

Moliere: "Never was any Dramatic performance so hurried as this; and it is a thing, I believe, quite new, to have a comedy planned, finished, got up, and played in a fortnight. I do not say this to boast of an impromptu, or to pretend to any reputation on that account: but only to prevent certain people, who might object that I have not introduced here all the species of Bores who are to be found. I know that the number of them is great, both at the Court and in the City, and that, without episodes, I might have composed a comedy of five acts and still have had matter to spare." So with that, who needs a plot? - Summary by ToddHW Cast list: Naiad: Leanne Yau Eraste, in love with Orphise: Tomas Peter Damis, guardian to Orphise: Rob Board Lisandre, a bore: Son of the Exiles Alcandre, a bore: Sandra Schmit Alcippe, a bore: alanmapstone Dorante, a bore: Nemo Caritides, a bore: Larry Wilson Ormin, a bore: Roger Melin Filinte, a bore: gawoozle La Montagne, servant to Eraste: ToddHW L'Epine, servant to Damis: Chuck Williamson La Riviere: Joseph Tabler Orphise, in love with Eraste: TJ Burns Orante, a female bore: Sonia Climene, a female bore: Eva Davis Stage Directions: April Walters Edited by: ToddHW

3 episodes

The Blunderer, or The Counterplots

A very early Moliere. From the Translator: "In this piece the plot is carried on ... by a servant, Mascarille, who is the first original personage Molière has created; he is not a mere imitation of the valets of the Italian or classical comedy; he has not the coarseness and base feelings of the servants of his contemporaries, but he is a lineal descendant of Villon, a free and easy fellow, not over nice in the choice or execution of his plans, but inventing new ones after each failure, simply to keep in his hand; not too valiant, except perhaps when in his cups, rather jovial and chaffy, making fun of himself and everybody else besides, no respecter of persons or things, and doomed probably not to die in his bed." - Summary by ToddHW Cast list: LELIO, son to PANDOLPHUS: Leanne Yau LEANDER, a young gentleman of good birth: Tomas Peter ANSELMO, an old man: Sonia PANDOLPHUS, an old man: Nemo TRUFALDIN, an old man: ToddHW ANDRÈS, a supposed gipsy: Son of the Exiles MASCARILLE, servant to Lelio: Larry Wilson ERGASTE, a servant: alanmapstone A MESSENGER: Zames Curran CELIA, slave to TRUFALDIN: TJ Burns HIPPOLYTA, daughter to ANSELMO: Eva Davis Stage Directions: Devorah Allen Edited by: ToddHW

5 episodes

Stories From The Operas

"Owing to the appreciation which has been accorded to my three series of "Stories from the Operas," it has been decided to re-issue the collection in one volume, and to include in this additional stories of new and popular operas recently produced in England.The plan of the work, as before, is to present all the incidents of each libretto in the clear, readable form of a short story; and it is hoped that the combined volume will continue to prove of interest, not only to opera-goers but to all lovers of dramatic tales. The three volumes have been entirely reset and re-collated in a manner which it is hoped will make them easier for reference." - Summary by Gladys Davidson

55 episodes

One-Act Play Collection 011

Here are 10 one act plays offered by various groups of Librivox readers. From Ancient India to the Far Future, from the palaces of royalty to the servants hall, from comedy to tragedy, from deeply philosophical to farcically entertaining. Enjoy! Chitra by Rabindranath Tagore (Coord and Edited by Anastasiia Solokha): Narrator: Foon Madana: Tomas Peter Vasanta: alanmapstone Chitra: Availle Arjuna: ToddHW Villagers: Sonia The Vampire Cat by Gerard van Etten (Coord by Anastasiia Solokha, Edited by ToddHW): Narrator: Ian King Prince Hizen: Tomas Peter Buzen: ToddHW Ruiten: TJ Burns Ito Soda: Chuck Williamson Kashiku: Sonia O Toyo: Availle The Countess of Escarbagnas by Moliere (Coord and Edited by ToddHW): Stage Directions: Sandra Schmit The Count, son to the Countess: DrPGould The Viscount, in love with Julia: ToddHW Mr. Thibaudier, councillor, in love with the Countess: Tomas Peter Mr. Harpin, receiver of taxes, also in love with the Countess: Nemo Mr. Bobinet, tutor to the Count: Eva Davis Jeannot, servant to Mr. Thibaudier: alanmapstone Criquet, servant to the Countess: Jasmin Salma The Countess of Escarbagnas: TJ Burns Julia, in love with the Viscount: Leanne Yau Andrée, maid to the Countess: Sonia Playgoers by Arthur Wing Pinero (Coord and Edited by ToddHW): Stage Directions: Tomas Peter The Master: ToddHW The Mistress: Sonia The Cook: Linda Olsen Fitak The Kitchenmaid: Jasmin Salma The Parlourmaid: Son of the Exiles The Housemaid: TJ Burns The Useful Maid: Devorah Allen The Odd Man: alanmapstone The Far-Away Princess by Hermann Sudermann (Coord and Edited by Tomas Peter): Narrator: ToddHW The Princess von Geldern: Sandra Schmit Baroness von Brook, her maid of honor: Sonia Frau von Halldorf: Monika M. C. Liddy, her daughter: Maria de Fátima da Silva Milly, her daughter: Maria Joy Fritz Strübel, a student: Tomas Peter Frau Lindemann: TJ Burns Rosa, a waitress: Foon Food A Tragedy of the Future by William C. de Mille (Coord and Edited by Devorah Allen): Narrator: DrPGould Basil, a New Yorker: Chuck Williamson Irene, his wife: TJ Burns Harold, an officer of the Food Trust: Jim Gallagher A Day Well Spent by John Oxenford (Coord and Edited by Zames Curran): Narrator: Availle Mr. Cotton (an eminent hosier, and old gentleman): ToddHW Mizzle (his apprentice, wishing to be a gentleman): Devorah Allen Bolt (his foreman, quite a gentleman): Tomas Peter Mr. Cutaway (an adventurous gentleman): Zames Curran Sam Newgate (no gentleman): alanmapstone Peter Prig (an ex-foreman, likewise no gentleman): Campbell Schelp Miss Harriet Cotton (an adventurous lady): Foon Mrs. Stitchley (an old lady): Sonia Miss Brown (her bosom friend—a middle-aged lady): TJ Burns Mrs. Chargely (a beneficent lady): Maria de Fátima da Silva Bridget (a lady’s lady): Pauline Latournerie Waiter: Chuck Williamson 2nd Waiter: Joseph Tabler Servant: Rosa Grace Coachman: Nathan Victoriano Boy: Jasmin Salma Bridges by Clare Kummer (Coord and Edited by Chuck Williamson): Stage Directions: Availle Penfield Parker, Jr. (Of Parker and Son, Bridge Builders): Chuck Williamson Wallie Breen (His friend, also in the office): DrPGould Enid Birdsall (The girl who wants to have a bridge built): Carmen Fullmer Efficiency by Perley Poore Sheehan/Robert H. [Hobart] Davis (Coord by DrPGould, Edited by ToddHW): Narrator: Foon The Emperor (modeled on Kaiser Wilhelm II): Chuck Williamson The Scientist: Availle Number 241: DrPGould Biscuits and Bills by O.B. DuBois (Coord and Edited by Foon): Narrator: Foon Jack Maynard: Ryan Bassette Mrs. Maynard: Maria de Fátima da Silva Mr. Brainard: DrPGould

10 episodes

Wappin' Wharf: A Frightful Comedy of Pirates

We had hoped that our drama's scene might lie on a pirate ship at sea. We had wished for a swaying mast, full-set with canvas—a typhoon to smother our stage in wind. We had hoped to walk a victim off the plank, with the sea roaring in the wings. But our plot deals stubbornly with us. Alas, our pirates grow old and stiff. They have retired, as we say, from active practice and live in easy luxury on shore. Yet we shall see that their villainy still thrives. - Summary from Prologue By the way, Section 0 has a buncha interesting explanations by the author on why and how the play came about and is called what it is - with no spoilers. But if you need to get right into the action, just start with Act 1. (ToddHW) Cast list: The Duke: Son of the Exiles Patch-Eye: Larry Wilson The Captain: Leanne Yau Red Joe: Tomas Peter Darlin': TJ Burns Betsy: Devorah Allen Old Meg: Linda Olsen Fitak Sailor Captain: alanmapstone Stage Directions: Sonia Introduction and Editing: ToddHW

4 episodes

Hamilton

One hundred years before the current hit musical Hamilton, Mary Hamlin wrote this historical play for Broadway with a big actor of the day, George Arliss, as co-author playing the leading role. It was made into a movie in 1931 with Arliss also playing the lead. - Summary by ToddHW Cast list: Alexander Hamilton: Tomas Peter General Schuyler: Amelia Chesley Thomas Jefferson: Wolfgang Bas James Monroe: Aleacia Messiah William B. Giles: Donald Gilmore Count Tallyrand: Delmar H Dolbier John Jay, Chief Justice: Joseph Tabler Zekiel: EJWiley James Reynolds: Chuck Williamson Colonel Lear: Campbell Schelp First Man: Nemo Second Man: Eva Davis Betsy Hamilton: Availle Angelica Church: TJ Burns Mrs. Reynolds: Leanne Yau Soldier's Wife: Foon Melissa: Foon Stage Directions and Edited by: ToddHW

4 episodes

The Notorious Mrs. Ebbsmith

Lucas Cleeve is living in Venice with a widow, Mrs. Ebbsmith. His relatives do not accept this arrangement and come to intervene. Note that this is NOT a farce - the hypocrisy is not played for laughs. - Summary by ToddHW Cast list: Antonio Poppi, Venetian servant: Francesco Carzedda Nella, Venetian servant: Sonia Fortune, a manservant: alanmapstone Mrs. Gertrude Thorpe: TJ Burns Rev. Amos Winterfield: Roger Melin Dr. Kirke: ToddHW Sir George Brodrick: Nemo Agnes Ebbsmith: Eva Davis Lucas Cleeve (Acts 1 and 2): Tina Nuzzi Lucas Cleeve (Acts 3 and 4): Foon The Duke of St. Olpherts: Tomas Peter Hephzibah, Lady's maid: Crln Yldz Ksr Sir Sandford Cleeve: Rob Board Sybil Cleeve: Leanne Yau Stage Directions: Larry Wilson Edited by: ToddHW

4 episodes

Charley's Aunt

The girlfriends are coming to visit the chaps at college, but of course they can't stay unless there is a proper chaperone. So what could be more reasonable that getting a friend from the Drama Club to dress up and pretend to be Charley's Aunt? Simple and sure to work! What could go wrong? Howsabout the real aunt arriving? This play has been revived and adapted numerous times including as films, a Broadway musical, and even an opera. (NOTE: the script contains an almost overwhelming number of stage directions by the author telling each actor what emotion to show, where to move, and even how to create some of the visual effects. Because the directions give a good idea of the on-stage pandemonium one would see at a production of this farce, I have chosen to leave the directions in this audio performance.) - Summary by ToddHW Cast list: STEPHEN SPETTIGUE, Solicitor, Oxford: Foon COLONEL SIR FRANCIS CHESNEY, BART., Late Indian Service: Larry Wilson JACK CHESNEY, Graduate at St. Olde's College, Oxford: Tom Daley CHARLEY WYKEHAM, Graduate at St. Olde's College, Oxford: Wolfgang Bas LORD FANCOURT BABBERLEY, Graduate at St. Olde's College, Oxford: Tomas Peter BRASSETT, A College Scout: ToddHW DONNA-LUCIA D'ALVADOREZ, From Brazil: Sonia AMY SPETTIGUE, Spettigue's Niece: Leanne Yau KITTY VERDUN, Spettigue's Ward: Beth Thomas ELA DELAHAY: TJ Burns Stage Directions: Devorah Allen Edited by: ToddHW

5 episodes

The Love-Tiff

"The characters are well delineated, and fathers, lovers, mistresses, and servants all move about amidst a complication of errors from which there is no visible disentangling. The conversation between Valère and Ascanio in man's clothes, the mutual begging pardon of Albert and Polydore, the natural astonishment of Lucile, accused in the presence of her father, and the stratagem of Éraste to get the truth from his servants, are all described in a masterly manner, whilst the tiff between Éraste and Lucile, which gives the title to the piece, as well as their reconciliation, are considered among the best scenes of this play." - Summary by The Translator Cast list: ÉRASTE, in love with Lucile: Nemo ALBERT, father to Lucile: ToddHW GROS-RENÉ, servant to Éraste: Roger Melin VALÈRE, son to Polydore: Adam DeFord POLYDORE, father to Valère: Larry Wilson MASCARILLE, servant to Valère: Tomas Peter METAPHRASTUS, a pedant: alanmapstone LA RAPIÈRE, a bully: Leanne Yau LUCILE, daughter to Albert: Eva Davis ASCANIO, Albert's daughter, in man's clothes: Beth Thomas FROSINE, confidant to Ascanio: TJ Burns MARINETTE, maid to Lucile: Sonia Stage Directions: Sandra Schmit Edited by: ToddHW

5 episodes

The Impostures of Scapin

Scapin is a liar, a schemer, an arrogant meddler who thinks he can make people do anything. And yet sometimes he acts in the cause of good. Here he attempts to help out some secret lovers whose parents would prefer they don't marry. - Summary by ToddHW Cast list: ARGANTE, father to OCTAVE and ZERBINETTE: ToddHW GÉRONTE, father to LÉANDRE and HYACINTHA: tovarisch OCTAVE, son to ARGANTE, and lover to HYACINTHA: Tomas Peter LÉANDRE, son to GÉRONTE, and lover to ZERBINETTE: Ashur Gharavi ZERBINETTE, daughter to ARGANTE, believed to be a gypsy girl: Availle HYACINTHA, daughter to GÉRONTE: Leanne Yau SCAPIN, servant to LÉANDRE: Sonia SILVESTRE, servant to OCTAVE: Larry Wilson NÉRINE, nurse to HYACINTHA: TJ Burns CARLE: alanmapstone Stage Directions: Sandra Schmit Edited by: ToddHW

3 episodes

Every Man In His Humour

Knowell, an old man - rumor says Shakespeare originally played this part - tries to spy upon the doings of his potentially wayward son. Meanwhile, Kitely, a merchant, worries so much about being cuckolded by his wife that perhaps it has to happen. All this while a swarm of other interesting characters surround them. - Summary by ToddHW Cast list: KNOWELL, an old Gentleman: ToddHW EDWARD KNOWELL, his Son: Rob Marland BRAINWORM, the Father's Man: Zames Curran GEORGE DOWNRIGHT, a plain Squire: Algy Pug WELLBRED, his Half-Brother: Jim Gallagher KITELY, a merchant: Joseph Tabler CAPTAIN BOBADILL, a Paul's Man: Hamlet MASTER STEPHEN, a Country Gull: alanmapstone MASTER MATHEW, the Town Gull: TJ Burns THOMAS CASH, KITELY'S Cashier: bdanzige OLIVER COB, a Water-bearer: Tomas Peter JUSTICE CLEMENT, an old merry Magistrate: Nemo ROGER FORMAL, his Clerk: Eva Davis DAME KITELY, KITELY'S Wife: Beth Thomas MRS. BRIDGET, his Sister: Leanne Yau TIB, Cob's Wife: Sonia Servant: Foon Stage Directions: Bhavya Edited by: ToddHW

5 episodes

At The Sign of The Greedy Pig

"Sometimes, in a mood of Spanish castles, there flits across my fancy the vision of an ancient city on a hill-top, with lofty battlements thrust upward from the rock and towers that stand on tip-toe…. Our stage is the square of this ancient city, seen dimly in the night.... The time of our play is remote and I choose to think the world is flat, that comets are of evil prophecy and witches still ride on the windy moon...." Published in the same book as "Wappin' Wharf: A Frightful Comedy of Pirates", this story is subtitled "A Frightful Comedy of Beggars". The play describes skulduggery at the tavern with The Sign of The Greedy Pig. Will the beggars be hung as vagrants? Will true love triumph at the end? - Summary by Author and ToddHW Cast list: Twist: Larry Wilson Whimp: Nemo Blat: Tomas Peter Squeak: Sandra Schmit Ballad Monger: ToddHW Mistress Trencher: Devorah Allen Syndic of the University: Phil Schempf Surgeon: Roger Melin Student: Eva Davis Bombastes: TJ Burns Jules: tovarisch Watchman: alanmapstone Apple Woman: Leanne Yau Yank, the Hangman: alanmapstone Bell-Ringer: Jim Locke A Girl: Availle An Old Woman: April6090 Another Old Woman: Foon A Third Old Woman: Angelique G. Campbell An Old Man: TriciaG A Voice in the Crowd: Availle Stage Direction: Sonia Edited by: ToddHW

2 episodes

Trelawny of the Wells

A theater, various actors and actresses, their admirers, financial backers, etc. The star Rose Trelawny wants to leave the stage for love, but it is not an easy thing to fit into conventional society after a life onstage. And not easy to go back to the stage either. - Summary by ToddHW Cast list: Tom Wrench: Tomas Peter Ferdinand Gadd: Roger Melin James Telfer: Patrick Wallace Augustus Colpoys: alanmapstone Rose Trelawny: Eva Davis Avonia Bunn: Leanne Yau Mrs Telfer (Miss Violet Sylvester): Susan Ferman Imogen Parrott: Sonia O'Dwyer: AidanVox The Gentleman (Mr Denzil): Tom Shortland The Lady (Miss Brewster): adr6090 Vice-Chancellor Sir William Gower, Kt: ToddHW Arthur Gower, his grandchild: Nemo Clara de Foenix, his grandchild: Sandra Schmit Miss Trafalgar Gower: Foon Captain de Foenix: Peter Musgrove Mrs Mossop: TJ Burns Mr Ablett: Treefairy Charles: Peter Musgrove Sarah: Availle Stage Directions: Larry Wilson Edited by: ToddHW

4 episodes

Psyche

This is a very different Moliere, not the usual satire of everyday life. It is instead a classical tale based on the ancient story of Psyche and Cupid, and was performed for Louis XIV with ballet interludes to music by Jean-Baptiste Lully (which we do not include here) in 1671. - Summary by ToddHW Cast list: Jupiter: alanmapstone Venus: Eva Davis Love; Cupid in Prologue: Tomas Peter Zephyr: alanmapstone Aegiale, a Grace: Crln Yldz Ksr Phaëne, a Grace: Sandra Schmit The King: alanmapstone Psyche: Leanne Yau Aglaura: TJ Burns Cidippe: Sonia Cleomenes, a prince, Psyche's lover: MajorToast Agenor, a prince, Psyche's lover: Rob Marland Lycas, captain of the guards: Zames Curran River God: alanmapstone Cupid: Eva Davis Flora: Foon Nymph, chorus of divinities: Availle Palemon, god of streams: alanmapstone Vertumnus, god of trees and fruit: Nemo Vulcan: Nemo First Man: Nemo Second Man: Stefan Von Blon Woman: April6090 Stage Directions and Editing: ToddHW

5 episodes

The Gay Lord Quex

Lord Quex, after a life of philandering, has decided to reform and marry. But he is not believed, particularly by the guardian of his intended. The play shows the difficulties in shaking a discreditable past - and how it is different for a male Lord than for a woman. - Summary by ToddHW Cast list: The Marquess of Quex: ToddHW Sir Chichester Frayne (Governor of Uumbos, West Coast of Africa): jonathanhartwell Captain Bastling: alanmapstone "Valma", otherwise Frank Pollitt (a Professional Palmist): Tomas Peter The Duchess Of Strood: Sonia Julia, Countess of Owbridge: TriciaG Mrs. Jack Eden: Beth Thomas Muriel Eden (her sister-in-law): Foon Sophy Fullgarney (a Manicurist): Devorah Allen Miss Moon (her Assistant): TJ Burns Miss Huddle (her Assistant): Leanne Yau Miss Claridge (her Assistant): Eva Davis Miss Limbird (her Assistant): Bhavya A Young Lady, Patron of Miss Fullgarney: Michelle Kiggen First Gentleman, Patron of Miss Fullgarney: Nemo Second Gentleman, Patron of Miss Fullgarney: Stefan Von Blon Servant: Eva Davis The Elder Servant: Nemo Stage Directions: Sandra Schmit Editing: ToddHW

4 episodes

The Funeral: or Grief A-La-Mode

The Funeral: or, Grief à-la-Mode, a Comedy, was written in the summer of 1701, and given to Christopher Rich, of the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, in October. Soon afterwards it was acted, and it was published by Jacob Tonson between December 18 and 20, with the date 1702 on the title-page. The music to the songs, by William Croft, appeared between December 16 and 18. [] The play was revived occasionally in most of the years between 1703 and 1734, and from time to time during the following half-century, the last date, apparently, being April 17, 1799. The plot is entirely original. Summary by G.A. Aitken Cast list: Lord Brumpton: ToddHW Lord Hardy, Son to Lord Brumpton, in love with Lady Sharlot: Rob Marland Mr. Campley, in love with Lady Harriot: Tomas Peter Mr. Trusty, Steward to Lord Brumpton: Campbell Schelp Cabinet: Son of the Exiles Mr. Sable, an Undertaker: Availle Puzzle, a Lawyer: Leanne Yau Trim, Servant to Lord Hardy: Joseph Tabler Tom, the Lawyer's Clerk: alanmapstone Lady Brumpton, Widow: Beth Thomas Lady Sharlot, Orphan, left in ward to Lord Brumpton: Devorah Allen Lady Harriot, Her Sister, left in ward to Lord Brumpton: Foon Mademoiselle d'Epingle: thestorygirl Tattleaid, Lady Brumpton's Woman: Sonia Mrs. Fardingale: TJ Burns Kate Matchlock: Carol Pelster Servant: Kay First Lady: Bhavya Second Lady: SaraHale Third Lady: Eva Davis Fourth Lady: Crln Yldz Ksr Fifth Lady: Leanne Yau Woman: Bhavya Boy: Nemo Gravedigger: Eva Davis Jemmie Bowin (Singer): alanmapstone Pate (Singer): Sandra Schmit Bumpkin (Soldier): pmstrahm Clump (Soldier): Leanne Yau Matchlock (Soldier): Leanne Yau Ragg (Soldier): MrRogers Tatter (Soldier): Treefairy First Soldier: MajorToast Second Soldier: Sandra Schmit Stage Directions: Chris Cartwright Edited by: ToddHW

5 episodes

Shakespeare Monologues Collection vol. 14

This is the 14th edition of the Shakespeare Monologues Collection, in which librivox volunteers bring you their favourite characters' monologues. All topics and emotions are covered, from love to hate, comedies and tragedies, world-famous and lesser known lines. - Summary by Carolin

29 episodes

A Little Bit of Fluff

According to the website www.stagebeauty.net, this is the 5th longest running play ever, with over 1200 original performances. Like Charley's Aunt (number 2 on the list and released by Librivox earlier in 2018), this also is a farce. An insurance investigator, a possible fraudulent injury claim, a lost necklace, an aged aunt with a more than passing resemblance to someone else, and of course, that Little Bit of Fluff - all conspire to cause great confusion. - Summary by ToddHW Cast list: JOHN AYERS: Tomas Peter BERTRAM TULLY, His friend: Campbell Schelp NIXON TRIPPETT, Inspector of Claims for the Motor ’Bus Company: Chuck Williamson DR. BIGLAND, Also for the Motor ’Bus Company: ToddHW PAMELA, Mrs. John Ayers: EmmaHatton MAMIE SCOTT, From the Five Hundred Club: TJ Burns AUNT HANNAH, Mr. Tully’s Aunt: Availle URSULA, Mr. Tully’s Maid: Aleacia Messiah CHALMERS, Mrs. Ayers’ Maid: Eva Davis Stage Directions: Elisabeth Holland Edited by: ToddHW

3 episodes

George Dandin: or The Abashed Husband

"The treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle having been ratified ... and peace being assured ... Louis XIV resolved to give a festival in his favorite gardens of Versailles. Moliere's comedy, George Dandin, formed the chief entertainment." The plot: A wife comes home rather late, finds the door shut, and threatens to kill herself if her husband does not let her in. She pretends to do so; the good man rushes out quite terrified; the wife, meanwhile, sneaks in, and he is in his turn locked out. Add in her idiot parents (Sotenville means Idiot In Town) and this should be the usual madcap fun. - Summary by Translator and ToddHW Cast list: George Dandin, a rich farmer, husband to Angelique: MajorToast Monsieur De Sotenville, a country gentleman, Angelique's father: ToddHW Clitandre, in love with Angelique: Tomas Peter Lubin, a peasant, Clitandre's servant: alanmapstone Colin, George Dandin's servant: Stefan Von Blon Angelique, George Dandin's wife: Bhavya Madam De Sotenville: Sonia Claudine, Angelique's maid: Leanne Yau Stage Directions: TJ Burns Edited by: ToddHW

3 episodes

Mrs. Pretty and The Premier

The Premier has decided that being married would be good for his image. He asks his stenographer for advice: (Premier) Good. Just jot me down a precis of the points made by your fifteen admirers when proposing - the points that specially appealed to you. (Stenographer) I'm afraid, sir, that what most appealed to me could not be expressed in words. In fact, it wasn't words. But no, sir. The subject is too sacred.... (Premier)...But you could tell me how they began. The opening address, eh? How did they lead up? (Stenographer) Most of 'em just kissed me, sir. It seemed to give them confidence. (Premier) But I couldn't possibly start like that. (Stenographer) It's always done sir.... - Summary by ToddHW Cast list: Herbert Dix, The Premier's Chief Private Secretary: Peter Musgrove Effie Bimm, Stenographer in the Premier's Room: Devorah Allen Gregory, Chief Messenger at Parliament House: alanmapstone William Power, Premier: Son of the Exiles Patrick O'Reilly, A Constituent: TJ Burns Edward Vyce, The Party Whip: Leanne Yau Martha Callender, The Premier's Sister: Beth Thomas Charles Lukin, Reporter on The Tribune: Tomas Peter Helen Pretty, A widow, the owner of Wyonora Estate: Sonia Mrs. Cusack, A friend of Mrs. Pretty's: Sandra Schmit Vernon Harrington, Leader of the Opposition: MajorToast Maid: Leanne Yau Stage Directions and Editing by: ToddHW

3 episodes

Hecyra: The Mother-In-Law

Terence's six plays are comedies written while he was a slave to a Roman senator. NOTE: the main plot elements in Hecyra are quite unacceptable today: Pamphilus has just married a woman he does not recognize that he had earlier raped in a drunken fit; nor does she recognize him. His mistress Bacchis is upset with the marriage and rejects him. He then wanders off, returning only in time to discover his wife with a new child that can't possibly be his. It takes both Mother and Mother-in-Law, and Bacchis, to bring a happy ending out of this confusion. - Summary by ToddHW Cast list: Laches, an aged Athenian, father of Pamphilus: ToddHW Phidippus, an aged Athenian, father of Philumena: alanmapstone Pamphilus, son of Laches: Tomas Peter Sosia, servant of Pamphilus: Nemo Parmeno, servant of Sostrata: Eva Davis Sostrata, wife of Laches: Beth Thomas Myrrhina, wife of Phidippus: TJ Burns Bacchis, a Courtesan: Sonia Philotis, a Courtesan: Devorah Allen Syra, a Procuress: Availle Stage directions: Leanne Yau Edited by: ToddHW

5 episodes

The Benefit of the Doubt

The plot resolves around a young woman being cited in court as "The Other Woman" in a divorce case, and how her family reacts to it. Says her uncle: I shall go out; people shall see me walking boldly through the streets: Portland Place—Regent Street—Fletcher Portwood, with his head up—his head up, they’ll say. I shall not turn my back on you, my poor little girl; don’t be frightened of that. You were always my favourite niece— I shall dine at the House, and then sup at the club. All London shall see me. “Look at Portwood!” everybody will say. “Then there can’t be the slightest foundation for this scandal about his niece——!” - Summary by ToddHW Cast list: Mrs. Emptage (a widow): Leanne Yau Claude Emptage (her son): Tomas Peter Justina Emptage (her daughter): Monika M. C. Theophila Fraser (her daughter): Foon Sir Fletcher Portwood, M.P. (her brother): ToddHW Mrs. Cloys (her sister): Sonia Rt. Rev. Anthony Cloys, D.D., Bishop of St. Olpherts: Son of the Exiles Alexander Fraser—“Fraser of Locheen”: Treefairy John Allingham: Nemo Olive Allingham: Eva Davis Denzil Shafto (Allingham’s Friend): Lex Hankins Peter Elphick (Allingham’s Friend): Josh Kibbey Mrs. Quinton Twelves: TJ Burns Horton (a servant at Mrs. Emptage’s): CharlieData Quaife (a servant at Mr. Allingham’s): Campbell Schelp Stage Directions: Larry Wilson Edited by:: ToddHW

4 episodes

Crossings: A Fairy Play

Under the terms of a will, the Wildersham children have to relocate from the family house in the city to "Crossings" in the country, and to spend the first fortnight alone fending for themselves in the house. The children encounter interesting country neighbors, including ghosts and fairies. Or are they dreaming? Walter De La Mare was a poet, and we have a number of his poems available at Librivox. This is his only play: "Crossings was produced for the first time in 1919, at the Wick School, Hove, to celebrate the coming of Peace. With the exception of one grown-up, Mr. Sebastian Sprott, its characters were taken by boys aged fourteen, or under." - Summary by ToddHW and Author Cast list: Mr. Charles James Wildersham: Larry Wilson Sarah, or Sallie (his First Daughter): EmmaHatton Frances, or France (his Second Daughter): TJ Burns Anthony, or Tony (his Son): Tomas Peter Ann (his Third Daughter): Campbell Schelp Miss Agatha Wildersham (his Sister, and their Aunt, of Bayswater): Carol Pelster Rev. Jeremy Welcome (Vicar of Little Crossings, and a friend of the children’s aunt, Susan, who is dead): Eva Davis Miss Julia Welcome (his Sister): Availle Josephine (their Niece): Linda Olsen Fitak Lady Minch (of the Hall, Great Crossings): Anita Sloma-Martinez Mr. Josiah Widge (the Cabman of Little Crossings): Scotty Smith Mr. John Budge (the Butcher of Little Crossings): Nemo Mrs. Budge: Nichalia Schwartz Jemima Budge (their small Daughter, also called Pollie): TriciaG Mr. William Honeyman (the Baker of Little Crossings): Lynette Caulkins Mrs. Honeyman: Elsie Selwyn Emily Honeyman (their small Daughter): Devorah Allen The Candlestick-maker (of Nowhere): Chuck Williamson A Beggarman (of Everywhere): Elsie Selwyn The Queen of the Fairies: thestorygirl Fairies, numberless and innumerable: Nichalia Schwartz Mrs. Marshall (the family cook): Elsie Selwyn Stage Directions and Edited By: ToddHW

5 episodes

The Lying Lover: or, The Ladies' Friendship

"The spark of this play is introduced with as much agility and life as he brought with him from France, and as much humour as I could bestow upon him in England. But he uses the advantages of a learned education, a ready fancy, and a liberal fortune, without the circumspection and good sense which should always attend the pleasures of a gentleman; that is to say, a reasonable creature. Thus he makes false love, gets drunk, and kills his man; but in the fifth Act awakes from his debauch, with the compunction and remorse which is suitable to a man's finding himself in a gaol for the death of his friend, without his knowing why. (From Preface) - Summary by Preface Cast list: Old Bookwit: ToddHW Young Bookwit, the "Lying Lover": Tomas Peter Lovemore, in love with Penelope: Aaron White Frederick, Friend to Lovemore: MajorToast Latine, Friend to Young Bookwit: Lex Hankins Storm, a Highwayman: Beth Thomas Charcoal, an Alchemist and Coiner: Son of the Exiles Simon, Servant to Penelope: alanmapstone Penelope: Leanne Yau Victoria, Friend to Penelope: Campbell Schelp Betty, Victoria's Woman: Devorah Allen Lettice, Penelope's Woman: Sonia Servant: Larry Wilson Maid: Nichalia Schwartz Constable: Larry Wilson Watchman: adr6090 First Prisoner: TwoFace Second Prisoner: Sandra Schmit Turnkey: Nemo Gaoler: pmstrahm Chair man: Nemo Mr Leveridge, professional singer: alanmapstone Stage Directions: Foon Edited by: ToddHW

5 episodes

Every Man Out of His Humour

Every Man Out of His Humour followed Jonson's play Every Man In His Humour. "This play as a fabric of plot is a very slight affair; but as a satirical picture of the manners of the time, proceeding by means of vivid caricature, couched in witty and brilliant dialogue and sustained by that righteous indignation which must lie at the heart of all true satire — as a realisation, in short, of the classical ideal of comedy — there had been nothing like Jonson's comedy since the days of Aristophanes.... What Jonson really did, was to raise the dramatic lampoon to an art, and make out of a casual burlesque and bit of mimicry a dramatic satire of literary pretensions and permanency." - Summary by ToddHW and Introduction Cast list: Asper: Nemo Macilente: Eva Davis Puntarvolo: Josh Kibbey Carlo Buffone: Tomas Peter Fastidious Brisk: Hamlet Deliro: ToddHW Fallace: Sonia Saviolina: Foon Sordido: Chris Pyle Fungso: Aaron White Sogliardo: Elijah Cavalier Shift: Devorah Allen Notary: Zames Curran Clove: Nemo Orange: TJ Burns Cordatus: Leanne Yau Mitis: alanmapstone Prologue: ToddHW Hind: Stefan Von Blon Cinedo: Larry Wilson Gentlewoman: Foon Lady Puntarvolo: Linda Olsen Fitak Fido: Luke Castle Tailor: Beth Thomas First Rustic: Sandra Schmit Second Rustic: Lex Hankins Third Rustic: Elsie Selwyn Fourth Rustic: April6090 Fifth Rustic: Son of the Exiles Musician: Foon Haberdasher: Nemo Groom: Lex Hankins George: Larry Wilson Constable: Nemo Drawer: Availle Servant: Elijah Stage Directions: Campbell Schelp Edited by: ToddHW

5 episodes

The Magnificent Lovers

"The King [Louis XIV], who will have nothing but what is magnificent in all he undertakes, wished to give his court an entertainment which should comprise all that the stage can furnish. To facilitate the execution of so vast an idea, and to link together so many different things, his Majesty chose for the subject two rival princes, who, in the lovely vale of Tempe, where the Pythian Games were to be celebrated, vie with each other in fêting a young princess and her mother with all imaginable gallantries." - Summary by The Translator Cast list: Iphicrate, prince in love with Eriphyle: Aaron White Timocles, prince in love with Eriphyle: Josh Kibbey Sostratus, a general, also in love with Eriphyle: Tomas Peter Anaxarchus, an astrologer: Sonia Cleon, his son: Campbell Schelp Chorœbus, in the suit of Aristione: Sandra Schmit Clitidas, a court jester, one of the attendants of Eriphyle: ToddHW Aristione, a princess, mother to Eriphyle: Cornel Nemes Eriphyle, a princess, daughter to Aristione: thestorygirl Cleonice, confidante to Eriphyle: Leanne Yau A sham Venus, acting in concert with Anaxarchus: Foon Aeolus: Elsie Selwyn A Triton: Jim Locke Other Tritons: Morgan Z. Sowell A Cupid: EikyTavie Another Cupid: Lex Hankins Yet Another Cupid: Sonia Neptune: Nemo A Sea God: Frédéric Surget Second Sea God: April 6090 Third Sea God: Gail Wamba Climene: Nichalia Schwartz Philinte: Son of the Exiles Stage Directions: Larry Wilson Edited by: ToddHW

5 episodes

One-Act Play Collection 012

Here are 10 One Act Plays for your enjoyment. They range from a 1659 farce by Moliere to a 1896 play by Fuller with early LGBT content; a Gilbert play without Sullivan's music, and many other short gems to make you laugh, cry, think, or all three. NOTE: Although the plays here were all published before 1923 and hence are in the Public Domain in the U.S., Pinski, McFadden, and Wilde died in 1959, 1961, and 1953 respectively and their plays may not yet be in the Public Domain in some countries. (Summary by ToddHW) Cast list: 01. The Flying Doctor by Moliere, Run by: ToddHW Valère, in love with Lucile: ToddHW Sganarelle, servant to Valère: Tomas Peter Gorgibus, father to Lucile: Aaron White Gros-René, valet to Gorgibus: alanmapstone A Lawyer: Leanne Yau Lucile: Devorah Allen Sabine, cousin to Lucile: Foon Stage Directions: Sonia 02. At Saint Judas' by Henry Blake Fuller, Run by: Chuck Williamson The Bridegroom: Nemo The Best Man: Tomas Peter The Sacristan: ToddHW Stage Directions: Sonia 03. The Grandmother by Lajos Biro, Run by: Bhavya The Grandmother: Sonia The Blond Young Lady: Foon The Brunette Young Lady: TJ Burns The Bride: Elsie Selwyn The Vivacious Girl: Jenn Broda The Melancholy Girl: Bhavya The Sentimental High School Girl: Devorah Allen The Jovial Young Man: Josh Kibbey The Polite Young Man: Chuck Williamson The Disagreeable Young Man: Tomas Peter Stage directions: Campbell Schelp 04. Everybody's Husband by Richard Ryan, Run by: Devorah Allen Mr. Alexis Twisselton: Aaron White Mr. Theophilus Bunbury: Tomas Peter Figgins: Larry Wilson Spriggins: ToddHW Dick, a Waiter: Averagemoe Mrs. Pimpernel, Mistress of a Boardinghouse: Pauline Latournerie Fanny, her Daughter: Sonia Miss Thompson, Spriggins's Ward: TJ Burns Miss Tomkins, Figgins's Ward: Jenn Broda Mrs. Twisselton: Devorah Allen Maid Servant: Foon Stage Directions: KevinS 05. A Dollar by David Pinski, Run by: TJ Burns The Comedian: Jim Gallagher The Villain: Aaron White The Tragedian: Tomas Peter The Old Man: Nemo The Heroine: Availle The Ingenue: Jenn Broda The Old Woman: Betsy Walker The Stranger: Campbell Schelp Stage Directions: TJ Burns 06. Why the Chimes Rang by Elizabeth Apthorp McFadden, Run by: Larry Wilson Holger - a peasant boy: Nemo Steen - his younger brother: Josh Kibbey Bertel - their uncle: Aaron White Old Woman: Jane Manning Angel: Elsie Selwyn Stage Directions: Larry Wilson 07. The Line of No Resistance by Percival Wilde, Run by: Elsie Selwyn George Robertson: Tomas Peter Jean Robertson: Devorah Allen Ethel Quenton: Betsy Walker Stage Directions: Aaron White 08. Rosencrantz and Guildenstern by W. S. Gilbert: ToddHW King Claudius: Aaron White Queen Gertrude: Sonia Rosencrantz: KevinS Guildenstern: Tomas Peter Ophelia: Foon Hamlet: alanmapstone First Player: Campbell Schelp He: Peter Yearsley She: Sandra Schmit Stage Directions: ToddHW 09. First Come, First Served by John Maddison Morton, Run by: David Olson Colonel Challenger: Larry Wilson Harry Barton: Max Körlinge Basil Royston: Tomas Peter Mrs. Templeton: Sonia Julia Templeton: Devorah Allen Josephine Templeton: Elsie Selwyn Stage Directions: David Olson 10. Wanted, A Male Cook by George Melville Baker, Run by: Elsie Selwyn Mr. Heartwell (an old bachelor): Larry Wilson Joshua Slocum (from Greensville, Maine): ToddHW Teddy Ryan (a native of Ireland): Tomas Peter François (a French cook): Pauline Latournerie Stage Directions: Max Körlinge

10 episodes

The Wasters

Here we have a serious family drama by Australian playwright Arthur Adams about legacy and responsibilities, with some question about exactly who exactly the Wasters in society are. "No; you produce nothing, you spend everything; you do nothing, you waste everything. You're parasites, useless parasites.... Parasites, inefficients, wasters, wasters!" "We may be parasites, but you have made us parasites. We may be wasters, but you prey on us." To highlight the growing tensions, it includes comic second act scenes placed in the women's undergarment department of the family store. - Summary by ToddHW Cast list: John Dangar: Josh Kibbey Baby Dangar: Leanne Yau Guy Dangar: Campbell Schelp Butler: ToddHW Anthony Clibborn: Aaron White Lindsay Thong: Tomas Peter Tossie Quork: Devorah Allen J. Charteris Maggs: Son of the Exiles Mrs. Goodsir: Ulrike Denis Mrs. Megget: Betsy Walker Mrs. Cronk: TJ Burns Elizabeth Hebblethwaite: Foon Mrs. Clibborn: Pauline Latournerie Stage Directions: Sonia Edited by: ToddHW

3 episodes

Andria: or, The Fair Andrian

Pamphilus wants to marry a woman different than his father has chosen for him. Add in paternal scheming, death bed promises, shipwreck, and other complications, and comedy ensues. - Summary by ToddHW Cast list: Simo, an aged Athenian: Aaron White Pamphilus, son of Simo: Josh Kibbey Sosia, freedman of Simo: Eva Davis Chremes, an aged Athenian: ToddHW Charinus, a young Athenian, in love with Philumena: Tomas Peter Crito, a native of Andros: alanmapstone Davus, servant of Simo: Campbell Schelp Dromo, servant of Simo: Nemo Byrrhia, servant of Charinus: Leanne Yau Glycerium, a young woman beloved by Pamphilus: Leanne Yau Mysis, her maid-servant: Sonia Lesbia, a midwife: TJ Burns Stage Directions: Foon Edited by: ToddHW

5 episodes

The "Mind The Paint" Girl

Another Pinero play from the early 1900s. With a social message about the effects of stardom on the star as well as those that love them. "I’m afraid there’s one thing finer than winning the woman you love and, when you’ve won her, being prepared to go through fire and water for her." "What’s that?" "Having the courage to give her up" - Summary by ToddHW Cast list: Viscount Farncombe: Tomas Peter Colonel the Hon. Arthur Stidulph: alanmapstone Baron von Rettenmayer: Nemo Captain Nicholas Jeyes: Campbell Schelp Lionel Roper: Hamlet Sam de Castro: Aaron White Herbert Fulkerson: Frédéric Surget Stewart Heneage: KevinS Gerald Grimwood: April 6090 Carlton Smythe (Manager of the Pandora Theatre): James Thomas Albert Palk (Actor at the Pandora): Sandra Schmit Wilfrid Tavish (Actor at the Pandora): Philip Watson Vincent Bland (A Musical Composer, attached to the Pandora): ToddHW Morris Cooling (Business Manager at the Pandora): Jim Locke Luigi (Maître d’hôtel at Catani’s Restaurant): Pier The Hon. Mrs. Arthur Stidulph (Formerly, as Dolly Ensor, of the Pandora Theatre): TJ Burns Lily Parradell (Of the Pandora): Foon Jimmie Birch (Of the Pandora): Sonia Gabrielle Kato (Of the Pandora): Pauline Latournerie Enid Moncrieff (Of the Pandora): Leanne Yau Daphne Dure (Of the Pandora): EmmaHatton Nita Trevenna (Of the Pandora): Lex Hankins Flo Connify (One of Four Beauties Of the Pandora): Eva Davis Sybil Dermott (One of Four Beauties Of the Pandora): Availle Olga Cook (One of Four Beauties Of the Pandora): Devorah Allen Evangeline Ventris (One of Four Beauties Of the Pandora): Elsie Selwyn Mrs. Upjohn (Lily Parradell’s mother): DuckTD Gladys (Lily’s parlourmaid): Eva Davis Maud (Lily’s maid): Leanne Yau Stage Directions: Larry Wilson Edited by: ToddHW

4 episodes

The Tender Husband: or The Accomplished Fools

"The Tender Husband is, as a whole, very amusing; but unfortunately a second plot—alluded to in the title—is woven into the story which gives to the play its interest; and as this account of the manner in which the "tender husband" tries the faithfulness of a foolish wife by means of his mistress, disguised as a man, is unwholesome in tone and unnatural, it spoils what would otherwise be an excellent farcical comedy, and at the same time has no real connection with the rest of the play." (G.A.Aitkin from 1894) See if you agree. - Summary by ToddHW Cast list: Sir Harry Gubbin, brother-in-law to Mr. Tipkin: Campbell Schelp Humphry Gubbin, son of Sir Harry Gubbin, and suitor to Biddy Tipkin, his cousin: Aaron White Mr. Tipkin, a banker, Biddy Tipkin's uncle: Larry Wilson Clerimont, Sen: ToddHW Capt. Clerimont, brother of Clerimont, Sen: Steven Fellows Mr. Pounce, a lawyer, Fainlove's brother: Tomas Peter Mrs. Clerimont: TJ Burns Aunt (Mrs. Tipkin): Foon Niece (Biddy Tipkin), Mr. Tipkin's niece: EmmaHatton Fainlove, mistress to Clerimont, Sen: Sonia Jenny, maid to Mrs. Clerimont: Lola Janie Boy: Leanne Yau Servant: Larry Wilson Stage Directions: Availle Edited by: ToddHW

5 episodes