The Constant Wife

Play

Writers: William Somerset Maugham

Overview

Show Information

Category
Play
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
Casting Notes
Mostly female cast
Includes adult, elderly, mature adult characters

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.

Lead Characters


The Constant Wife guide sections