Home » Arts & Life » Reviews » English Department prepares controversial play

English Department prepares controversial play

November 4, 2010
By Bianca Sparacino

The English Department has teamed up with an enthusiastic group of students and a passionate director to bring Western their rendition of William Wycherley’s controversial play The Country Wife.

The play is described as a comedy about the Restoration period. It tells the story of the evil-minded Horner and his ingenious scheme to seduce the women of London. By spreading a rumour about his own impotence, Homer gains the sympathy of the husbands of the town and, more importantly, free access to their wives. Meanwhile, the newly-married Pinchwife desperately attempts to keep his naïve country bride, Margery, from the clutches of predatory London bachelors. When she and Horner meet, events spiral out of his control.

Hoping to land a part in The Country Wife, cast member Sheila Frise, decided to audition for her first theatrical play. She was, to her surprise, cast in one of the leading roles — Margery Pinchwife. As a self-proclaimed newcomer, Frise is very excited for the play to open on Nov. 5.

“I think everyone will be surprised [...] it was hardly performed when it was first written due to being so scandalous, so it is going to be interesting to see how the audience reacts to how risqué it actually is,” Frise says.

Despite having only two months to put the play together, according to Frise director Jo Devereux has created a strong cast dynamic.

“Preparing for the play has [been] really fun, and the rehearsal isn’t work — which just gives you a little insight into how entertaining the actual play is,” Frise says. “It never seems like a chore.”

The cast has been rehearsing since the first week of September, and now that opening night is fast approaching they have been practicing together every day. A dedication to the theatre is visible not only in the cast members, but also in the stagehands and director.

Devereux talks about putting on this play with a little sparkle in her eye. It’s clear she is passionate and confident in the production when she speaks about it. She was the one who suggested it to the department.

“I love this type of play. It’s funny, and it requires a large cast. Getting everyone involved in so many ways is really fulfilling,” she says.

On a more technical level, Devereux has added many creative ideas to the production, morphing it into something she thinks will please a modern audience while still keeping its historical relevance.

A new character has even been added to make the proceedings seem more realistic and engaging than past productions. Devereux says the famous China scene is going to be something worth seeing the play for.

The Country Wife opens Nov. 5. There will be subsequent shows on Nov. 6, and from Nov. 11 to 13. These performances will be held at 8 p.m. in Conron Hall. Tickets are available to students and seniors for $10, and to adults for $15. If you have further questions you can contact the Department of English at 519 661 – 3403.

Follow the Gazette on Facebook and Twitter.