Dieser britische Dramatiker war einer der beliebtesten Autoren seiner Zeit. Seine Stücke spielen typischerweise im Milieu der gehobenen Mittelschicht und behandeln Themen wie sexuelle Frustration, gescheiterte Beziehungen und Ehebruch. Er schildert eine Welt der Unterdrückung und Zurückhaltung, die die eigenen Gefühle des Autors als Außenseiter widerspiegelt.
Exploring the intricate dynamics of family and the pursuit of success, this gripping narrative delves into the sacrifices individuals make to achieve their dreams. It highlights the tension between personal ambitions and familial bonds, revealing how far one might go to balance these often conflicting desires. Through compelling characters and emotional depth, the story invites readers to reflect on the true cost of success and the enduring power of family ties.
Set in 1911 London, this play unfolds the enchanting tale of Mary Morgan, a young actress who captures the heart of Prince Charles of Carpathia, a character reminiscent of Romania's Carol II. Written by Terence Rattigan to coincide with Queen Elizabeth II's coronation, it explores themes of love and ambition against a backdrop of royal intrigue. The cast features five women and seven men, bringing to life the whimsical and poignant moments of this occasional fairy tale.
A touring Shakespearean ham actor grapples with a questionable and mysterious history while performing in provincial theaters. As the story unfolds, themes of identity, deception, and the pursuit of redemption emerge, revealing the complexities of his character and the impact of his past on his present. The narrative explores the interplay between performance and reality, highlighting the struggles of life on the road and the search for acceptance amidst a backdrop of theatrical ambition.
In this comedic retelling of Tosca, the characters are infused with humor and absurdity. Scarpia is portrayed as a boastful yet impotent villain, while Tosca embodies a proud beauty caught in a chaotic situation. A Captain adds to the confusion, misinterpreting Scarpia's intentions regarding Tosca's lover's fate. The tension escalates when Tosca's attempt to stab Scarpia is thwarted by his knife-proof vest, leading to a farcical clash between desire and deception. The dynamic of one woman and three men drives the comedic narrative.
This edition features a classic work by Rattigan, coinciding with a significant revival and national tour. It offers readers a comprehensive look at the play, highlighting its enduring themes and relevance in contemporary theater. The publication aims to celebrate the playwright's legacy while providing insights into the production's impact on modern audiences.
"Feelings can't sometimes be helped, but the expression of them can." Inspired by La Dame aux Camelias, and set amidst the glamorous and exotic society of the 1950s French Riviera, Variation on a Theme revolves around the tempestuous love affair between Rose, a beautiful and worldly socialite, and Ron, a young ballet dancer with a keen eye for social advancement. In an emotionally charged story of desire and disillusionment, Rose is persuaded by Ron's choreographer and mentor, Sam, to sacrifice her personal happiness for the sake of her young lover's success and career. But as Rose's health deteriorates, and Ron is faced with the loveless reality of their separation, they finally face up to their need to be needed. A forgotten classic by "one of the supreme dramatists of the 20th century" (Michael Billington, Guardian), Terence Rattigan's Variation on a Theme was presented by HPZ Productions in association with Neil McPherson at the Finborough Theatre in February 2014. The production, its first in more than fifty years, starred twice Olivier Award nominated Rachael Stirling. The play's original 1958 premiere was directed by John Gielgud and starred Margaret Leighton and Jeremy Brett.
Terence Rattigan's works delve into the complexities of human relationships, often exploring themes of love, loss, and societal expectations. His plays are characterized by sharp dialogue and intricate character development, revealing the emotional struggles of individuals caught in the constraints of their environment. Rattigan’s unique ability to blend humor with poignant drama has made his contributions to theater both enduring and impactful, showcasing the fragility of human connections against the backdrop of mid-20th century society.
At the Falcon Hotel, on the Lincolnshire coast, Teddy a young RAF bomber pilot
celebrates a reunion with his actress wife Patricia. They are thrown into
upheaval when Peter, Patricia's ex lover and Hollywood heartthrob, arrives and
an urgent bombing mission over Germany is ordered.
