Bedford Players Theatre put on their dress rehearsal last night for Marplot, The Busy Body. Costumes of the era, from the 18th century, add colour and bring the audience back to an era where things were different, yet not so different after all!

Playwright Susanna Centlivre (1667-1723) was one of the premier dramatists of the 18th century. An apparent early feminist, her first play, The Perjured Husband, included a prologue which boasted that it had been written by a woman.

This is reflected in Marplot with Isabanda (Michelle Wood) and Miranda (Valerie MacKenzie), two young ladies who take full control of their lives to obtain that which their hearts desire.

The ladies are hampered by the plans of their respective Guardian, Sir Francis (Bryn Rowlands), and Mother, Lady Jealousie Kathy O’Brien). Not to be deterred, the ladies enlist the aid of their ladies’ maids to manage secret rendezvous with the objects of their affection, Charles (Jacob Wilson) and Sir George (Bernie Matthew Rau).

For their part, the gentlemen further the cause by engaging the talents of Marplot (Robin Saywood), a friend who is always willing to serve, making it his business to be in on everything and uniquely talented in putting his foot forward in the wrong manner.

Marplot runs from April 28 to May 14, with a matinee on May 8 (Thursday to Saturday 8 p.m., Sunday 2 p.m.).

Tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for seniors and students.
$1 per ticket will be donated to Daniel LeBlanc Client Support Group Society.

The Bedford Players Theatre is located at 1408 Bedford Highway, in the All Saints Church Hall.

For reservations please call 832-3300 or visit www.bedfordplayers.ns.ca.

Source: http://www.bedfordbeacon.com/marplot-hits-the-stage