The Best Man

Play

Writers: Gore Vidal

Overview

Show Information

Book
Category
Play
Number of Acts
2
First Produced
1960
Genres
Drama
Settings
Period, Unit/Single Set
Time & Place
A Sheraton Hotel in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Summer 1960
Cast Size
medium
Ideal for
Ensemble Cast, Large Cast, Professional Theatre, Regional Theatre
Casting Notes
Mostly male cast
Includes adult, mature adult, elderly characters

Synopsis

It’s the summer of 1960. With the Presidential primaries in full swing, two men battle for the nomination of their party: William Russell, a former Governor and Secretary of State determined to stick to his principles, and Senator Joseph Cantwell, willing to do anything to win. Both come into sensitive information that could sink their opponent’s campaign, igniting public mud-slinging and a stand-off that could end their careers and marriages. How far are they willing to go to win? Their political party is never mentioned, but the characters are based on real figures from the 1960 Democratic Convention. The original Broadway production earned six Tony Award nominations, including Best Play. It has since been revived on Broadway twice and was adapted into a film in 1964.

Lead Characters


The Best Man guide sections