THE RIVALS | SHERIDANS

First performed in 1775, The Rivals is one of Sheridan’s most celebrated comedies of manners. Set in the elegant city of Bath, this witty play satirizes love, courtship, mistaken identities, and the follies of high society.

At its heart is the story of Captain Jack Absolute, who disguises himself as a poor officer to win the affections of the romantic Lydia Languish. Alongside them, unforgettable characters like the fiery Mrs. Malaprop (famous for her humorous misuse of words) bring the play to life with sharp humor and sparkling dialogue.

✨ Key Highlights:

• A classic comedy of manners filled with wit and satire.

• Memorable characters, including Mrs. Malaprop, whose “malapropisms” gave the English language a new word.

• Themes of romance, deception, and social pretensions.

• Ideal for students of English literature and lovers of classic theatre.

🎯 Why Read This Play?

The Rivals remains a timeless work for its clever language, entertaining conflicts, and enduring humor. It is widely studied in schools and universities and continues to delight audiences worldwide.

👉 Short version (for shop listing):
A witty comedy of love, deception, and social satire, Sheridan’s The Rivals is a timeless classic featuring the unforgettable Mrs. Malaprop and her hilarious misuse of words.