by Kelsee Jackson, dramaturg It's easy to fall in love with the Edwardian time period. It has fascinated scholars, authors, playwrights, and screenwriters for years. The clothes, the mannerisms, the parties, and the people are intriguing and fashionable. It makes the perfect backdrop for dramatic and comedic stories alike. But if Misalliance closes tomorrow, how will you get your Edwardian fix? If you, like many others, simply can't get enough of the Edwardian lifestyle, here are some stories you might fancy.
The Hound of the Baskervilles by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle Published in 1902, this novel follows the adventures of Sherlock Holmes and his trusty companion Dr. Watson as they try to solve the mystery of an attempted murder and a fearsome, supernatural beast. This novel still ranks as one of the UK's most beloved stories, and many films and TV shows have been made about Sherlock's many adventures.
Peter Pan by J.M. Barrie Peter Pan was first published as part of a novel called The Little White Bird in 1902. J.M. Barrie expanded it and published it as a play in 1904. The play captured the imaginations of grown-ups and children alike, emphasizing the magic of childhood years. While most of this story takes place in the enchanted world of Neverland, hints Edwardian lifestyle can be seen in scenes at home, with Wendy, Michael and John's parents.
A Little Princess by Frances Hodgson Burnett A beloved story about a little girl who is suddenly orphaned and left in a desolate condition. She makes friends and learns how to enhance the situation she is put in through kindness and love. First published in 1905, A Little Princess and The Secret Garden, Burnett's most beloved books, have lasted throughout the century in the hearts of children and grown-ups alike.
Pygmalion by George Bernard Shaw Perhaps one of George Bernard Shaw's most well-known plays, it follows the story of a flower sellswoman Eliza Doolittle and Professor Higgins and he tries to turn her into a proper lady. While this process became more complicated than Higgins could have imagined, he certainly never expected to fall in love with her! The first production of Pygmalion premiered in Vienna in 1913 and soon moved to London and New York. Years later, this smashing success was made into a beloved musical, My Fair Lady. These few Edwardian gems are filled with humor, drama, and style and we hope you enjoy them! With the closing of Misalliance, we want to thank you for seeing and supporting the show. What a fun run it has been! Don't forget to get your tickets to other fantastic BYU productions by going to arts.byu.edu.
