Easy Virtue Tickets

Easy Virtue is a play that has a complex relationship with theater. Written by Noël Coward in 1924, the play examines the changing norms and values of society during the interwar years. The story follows a young woman named Larita, who marries into an English aristocratic family, but is met with hostility and judgment due to her past as a racecar driver and divorcee.

One way in which Easy Virtue is related to theater is through its exploration of class and gender roles. The play highlights how societal expectations can differ depending on one’s social standing or gender. For example, the character of John Whittaker is expected to uphold a certain image of masculinity and respectability, while Larita is seen as unconventional and unsuitable for the role of a proper wife due to her past.

Furthermore, the play also touches on the concept of performance itself. Throughout the story, characters are shown putting on a façade to fit in with their surroundings. This is exemplified in the scene where the family performs a tableau for their guests, showcasing themselves as an idealized version of aristocracy. This theme of performance raises questions about authenticity and whether societal norms dictate our actions and behavior.

In terms of staging, Easy Virtue presents challenges for theaters due to its use of a single set. The play takes place entirely in the drawing room of John Whittaker’s family home, making it necessary for the actors and director to find ways to make the space feel dynamic and vibrant. Scenes involving movement and staging become crucial in keeping the audience engaged.

Despite these challenges, Easy Virtue remains a popular play in the theatrical canon. Its commentary on societal norms, gender roles, and performances continue to resonate with audiences today. Its timeless themes have led to numerous adaptations, including a film adaptation in 2008 directed by Stephan Elliott and starring Jessica Biel and Colin Firth.

In conclusion, Easy Virtue is a play that sheds light on societal expectations and performances. Its relationship with theater is complex, as it requires actors to perform within a limiting space, but also provides an opportunity for creative solutions to the staging challenge. The play’s themes make it a valuable addition to any theater repertoire, as it asks important questions about authenticity, societal norms, and gender roles that continue to resonate with audiences today.