‘Lady Windermere’s Fan’ is an Oscar Wilde classic that showcases his trademark wit and is known as a charming, touching piece. This biting satire on the morals of Victorian society and the institution of marriage was first produced in 1892 at the St. James Theatre in London to instant success. I imagine that it was quite scandalous for the time, with the main intrigue of the relationship between Mrs. Erlynne and Lady Windermere a vast, dark, surprising secret! It's not shocking by todays standards, but in 1892 the 'secret' of the play was a big surprise.
Today's world gives not a wit about one's reputation. Reality shows make stars of people who proudly sin and display their every action to the world. In 1892, one could be socially ostricized for behaving even MILDLY risque. You could lose your entire reputation by merely being alone with man in his rooms. People did SIN in 1892, but it was undercover, and they took great pains to keep it so.
Mrs. Erylnne is a fascinating character and it's a joy to play her! She has very modern, realistic views but also understands what society demands of it's players. She made a great mistake long ago, and has lived with it. She's a survivor who has steeled herself against the pain of her mistakes, but within the course of the play realizes that that her tiny little heart does beat after all!
Oscar Wilde blends the black and white of “good” and “bad” into gray with 'Lady Windermere's Fan'. We hope that you will come and see it!
April 13, 24, and 16th. More info Here