Overview
Synopsis
A classic comedy of manners play, William Somerset’s The Constant Wife turns marital infidelity on its head with clever wit and a charming lead. The action of the play centers around Constance Middleton, the wife of wealthy doctor John Middleton, and John’s affair with Constance’s closest friend, Marie-Louise. Constance’s sister is dead-set on revealing the affair against the strong wishes of their traditional mother. But as it turns out Constance is a lot more keen than anyone gave her credit for and proceeds to easefully manipulate a situation she has more control over than anyone. Driven by a strong comedic female role, The Constant Wife is constantly amusing.
Show Information
- Category
- Play
- Age Guidance
- Youth (Y)/General Audiences (G)
- Number of Acts
- 3
- First Produced
- 1926
- Genres
- Comedy
- Settings
- Period, Unit/Single Set
- Time & Place
- A house on Harley Street in London.
- Cast Size
- medium
- Orchestra Size
- None
- Dancing
- None
- Ideal For
- College/University, Community Theatre, Ensemble Cast, Professional Theatre, Regional Theatre, Star Vehicle Female, Mostly Female Cast, Includes Adult, Elderly, Mature Adult Characters, Medium Cast
Context
Plot
Characters
| Name | Part Size | Gender | Vocal Part |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Lead |
Female |
Non-singer |
|
|
Supporting |
Female |
Non-singer |
|
|
Supporting |
Male |
Non-singer |
|
|
Supporting |
Male |
Non-singer |
|
|
Featured |
Male |
Non-singer |
|
|
Ensemble |
Female |
Non-singer |
|
|
Ensemble |
Female |
Non-singer |
|
|
Ensemble |
Female |
Non-singer |
|
|
Ensemble |
Male |
Non-singer |
Songs
A song with an asterisk (*) before the title indicates a dance number; a character listed in a song with an asterisk (*) by the character's name indicates that the character exclusively serves as a dancer in this song, which is sung by other characters.
Monologues
Scenes
Key Terms
A Comedy of Manners is a dramatic genre that satirizes the customs, behaviors, and social norms of a particular class or group, often through witty dialogue and clever banter. It typically focuses on relationships, courtship, and social pretensions, exposing human vanity and hypocrisy. This style thrives on sharp humor and quick repartee, making it both entertaining and socially revealing.
A betrayal of romantic commitment, often a catalyst for emotional turmoil and dramatic conflict.
A new production of a previously performed play or musical, often reinterpreting its themes or updating its design.
A performer with a very brief, usually non-speaking role, used to populate the world of the play realistically.
Videos
Quizzes
Themes, Symbols & Motifs
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Quote Analysis
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Guide Written By:
Kevan Dunkelberg
Oklahoma-based drama teacher, actor and playwright