I'm not sure why 2016 has seen not one, but two, productions of Sheridan's The Rivals but I'm certainly not complaining.
Our first performance of the play was at the Theatre by the Lake in Keswick earlier in the summer. It was superb and a very hard act to follow. However, the production at the Liverpool Playhouse in conjunction with the Bristol Old Vic, was wonderful and of an equally high standard. The play rattled along at a rollicking pace with simply splendiferous actors, costumes and scenery.
I love the whole comedy of manners theatre and Sheridan's plays are amongst the most witty and accomplished examples of the genre.
So, now, thoroughly spoiled, I'm waiting for a production, or two, of School for Scandal...