By: Pierre Beaumarchais (1732-1799)
Barber of Seville by Pierre Beaumarchais is a delightful and witty comedy that follows the escapades of Figaro, a barber and jack-of-all-trades who helps his friend Count Almaviva woo the beautiful Rosine. The play is full of clever dialogue, farcical situations, and mistaken identities that keep the audience entertained from start to finish.
One of the standout features of Barber of Seville is its memorable characters. Figaro is a charismatic and resourceful protagonist who uses his wit and charm to navigate the complicated love triangle between the Count, Rosine, and her overbearing guardian Dr. Bartolo. The interactions between the characters are filled with humor and intrigue, making for a lively and engaging story.
In addition to its entertaining plot and characters, Barber of Seville also offers a commentary on social class and the power dynamics at play in 18th-century society. The play explores themes of love, deception, and social mobility, shedding light on the complexities of relationships and the lengths people will go to in pursuit of their desires.
Overall, Barber of Seville is a classic comedy that has stood the test of time for good reason. With its sharp wit, engaging characters, and timeless themes, this play is sure to entertain and delight readers of all ages. Book Description: Count Almaviva's heart is stolen when he lays eyes on Rosine, but he worries that she will only love him for his money. Can Figaro help him? This comedy is the first play in Beaumarchais' Figaro trilogy. It was written in 1773, but because of political and legal problems, Beaumarchais could not stage the play until 1775. The Barber of Seville was adapted into at least five operas, the best-known being by Rossini. The other plays in the trilogy are The Follies of a Day: or the Marriage of Figaro and The Guilty Mother. - Summary by Lynette Caulkins
Cast list:
Count Almaviva, Spanish Grandee, Incognito lover of Rosine: Jake Malizia
Doctor Bartholo, Physician and Guardian of Rosine: James R. Hedrick
Rosine, Young Lady of Noble Birth, Ward of Bartholo: WendyKatzHiller
Figaro, The Barber of Seville: ToddHW
Don Bazile, Organist and Rosine's Music Teacher: Alan Mapstone
Youngman, an old Servant of Bartholo: realisticspeakers
Wideawake, another Servant of Bartholo. A Dolt and a Sluggard: Joanna Michal Hoyt
A Notary Public: Ciufi Galeazzi
A Justice of the Peace: Lynette Caulkins
Stage Directions: Larry Wilson
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