The Beaux Stratagem
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The Beaux Stratagem
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Synopsis
Aimwell and Archer: two impoverished gentlemen, use the last of their limited resources to tour around England in search of rich wives. Knowing that nothing is as unattractive as poverty they give the impression of wealth by alternating the roles of master and servant. Any money gained through their plan will be divided between them. We meet them in Lichfield where they come in contact with the household of Squire Sullen and espy Dorinda who is exactly the kind of young woman their stratagem was designed to entrap. However, things do not run as smoothly as they would wish and our Beaux' campaign has to deal with a scheming landlord, his clever daughter, a gang of highwaymen, and Archer's insistent need for sexual gratification.
Written in 1707, the same year as the Acts of Union, the play shows a glimpse of life in the brand new Great Britain where wealth and its accumulation has a kind of 'make it up as you go along' morality. It is packed with fun, charm, hapless eccentrics, and bags of style. It is a bright and enduring testament to the ridiculousness of human nature, a wonderful comedy of character and manners.
Company
Creative Team
Director: Robert Carson
Set Designer: Isaac Wilcox
Lighting Designer: Simon Hayes
Sound Designer: Sarah MacDonald
Technical Production Team
Stage Manager: Samantha Burt
Deputy Stage Manager: Rosie Barber
Assistant Stage Managers: Mark Blythe, Katy Nicolson
Technical Stage Manager: Jennifer Howes
Assistant Technical Stage Manager: Ian Smyth
Chief Production Electrician: Ben Terry
Assistant Production Electrician: Kieran Fitzpatrick
Lighting Programmer/Operator: Fraser Milroy
Sound Designer/Sound No 1: Sarah MacDonald
Sound No 2: Maciej Kopka