‘The Rivals’ by Richard Brinsley Sheridan

Directed by Phil Wells  

Playing Dates 27th - 30th October 2010

False identities, romantic entanglements and hilarious complications abound in this radiant comic masterpiece by one of the most nimble-witted playwrights of the English language. A comedy of mistaken identities and misconceptions of love, The Rivals satirizes marriage and wealth.

In order to woo the idealistic Lydia Languish, to whom wealth means little, Captain Absolute offers himself to her as a poor Army officer. Standing between the two lovers is an extraordinary collection of comic characters: the captain's acrimonious father, Sir Anthony Absolute; Lydia's quick-tongued aunt, Mrs. Malaprop; and the affable Bob Acres, the captain's friend turned rival.