Classic comedy “She Stoops to Conquer” Oct. 15-23

Parkside Theatre, the award-winning theatre arts company at the University of Wisconsin-Parkside, presents seven performances of the comedy "She Stoops to Conquer." Directed by Lisa Kornetsky from Oliver Goldsmith's 18th century story, the play runs Oct. 15-23, 2010, in the Communication Arts Theatre on the campus located at 900 Wood Rd. in Kenosha. 

Kornetsky said a strong cast of witty, likeable characters and the opportunity to peek behind the veneer of high society have kept audiences coming back to see this play since it premiered in 1773.

"Goldsmith's play is an enduring favorite because he writes about real people with all of their eccentricities, foibles, and charm," Kornetsky stated. "Although it's written in formal 18th century style--which is fun to watch--we recognize the characters as human beings very much like ourselves. Ultimately, the play is farcical and, as the plot moves through the mistakes of the night, we are drawn in to that world and enjoy the laughter that results."       

The plot revolves around a marriage arranged by Mr. Hardcastle between his daughter Kate and the well-born Mr. Charles Marlow, the son of an old family friend. But Marlow has a peculiar problem: around ladies of quality, he's nervous and noncommittal; around women of lower social standing, he is much freer with his opinions and affections. Kate gets to see--and likes--this side of Marlow...a lot.

Before arriving at Hardcastle's home, Marlow stops at the Three Pigeons Tavern and meets Hardcastle's stepson, Tony Lumpkin. Lumpkin plays a practical joke on the young suitor, directing him to Hardcastle's home but telling him it's an inn run by an eccentric innkeeper who fancies himself a gentleman. At the "inn," Marlow treats Hardcastle as he would a commoner, enraging the father, and making it necessary for Kate, who is quite smitten with Marlow, to devise a scheme accentuating Marlow's better qualities.

Complicating matters even further are an inheritance of jewels which Mr. Hardcastle's wife closely guards, a fortune Lumpkin is due when he "comes of age"?whenever and if ever that day comes, and a young couple's plans to elope.

"She Stoops to Conquer" is presented as an Arts Alive! presentation Friday, Oct. 15. The remaining six performances are Oct. 16, 21, 22, and 23 at 7:30 p.m., Oct. 17 at 2 p.m., and Oct. 22 at 10 a.m.

Tickets are $15 for adults, $11 for seniors, and $7 for students. To order tickets, visit www.uwp.edu keyword: Theatre or call 262-595-2564 or 262-595-2307.

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ABOUT THIS STORY:

Story Status: Archived
Publish date: 10/6/2010

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