on the Francis J. Greenburger Mainstage
by Dion Boucicault
directed by Charlotte Moore
With Craig Wesley Divino, Meg Hennessy, Ian Holcomb, Elliot Joseph, Brian Keane, Colin McPhillamy, Rachel Pickup, Caroline Strang, Evan Zes, and Robert Zukerman
“a perfect production of one of the funniest plays ever written…London Assurance is the tonic you’ve been looking for” – Terry Teachout, The Wall Street Journal
In this high-spirited farce, the vain and lustful Sir Harcourt Courtly travels to Oak Hall to meet his bride-to-be, the charming young Grace Harkaway, whose hand comes with £15,000 a year. But when the beautiful and vibrant Lady Gay Spanker joins the party, Sir Harcourt becomes too enamored with her to notice that Grace is falling in love with his young son Charles, who has arrived in disguise, pursued by his creditors! A parade of eccentric characters and merry mishaps ensue in this classic comedy of manners.
This beloved play catapulted the then 20-year-old Dion Boucicault to fame when it premiered at London’s Covent Garden in March of 1841. It was the beginning of a long and storied career for the young Irish actor/playwright, who is considered one of the most successful and influential theatrical figures of the 19th Century.
“a perfect production of one of the funniest plays ever written…the 10-person cast is beyond praise…London Assurance is the tonic you’ve been looking for” – Terry Teachout, The Wall Street Journal
“Charlotte Moore directs a spirited ten-person cast of exquisite comic skills” – Ken Marks, The New Yorker
This “deft and cheerful” revival “showcases some delicious characters” – Alexis Soloski, The New York Times
McPhillamy’s “expressive delivery leaves no funny line unpunched” in this “handsome revival” – Time Out New York
“a gorgeously designed production… [McPhillamy] keeps us in stitches… Irish Rep audiences should be delighted” – Theatermania
“an inspired choice… go immediately and be transported” – One Magazine, Lisa Del Rossi
“a holiday treat the whole family can enjoy” – Talkin’ Broadway
“this visit to the past is the perfect holiday present” – Theatre News Online
“the perfect production… marvelous” – Carole Di Tosti, New York Skyline
“charming and fun” – New York Theatre Guide
“not a bad place to spend a chilly evening” – Elysa Gardner, New York Stage Review
