250-year-old play set in Bath receives run

  • 2025-11-14
A revival of the Restoration comedy 'The Rivals' by Richard Brinsley Sheridan, celebrating its 250th anniversary, is due to be given a series of performances in Bath at the end of January.

This updated production is relocated to the 'Roaring Twenties'. Risque, romance, and rivalry are all present at the Assembly Rooms, where tradition is confronted by change. Jack and Lydia are apparently ideal for one another, but Lydia has a rebellious nature and Jack’s simply too posh.

However, Sir Anthony Absolute, Jack's father will not tolerate being disobeyed, whilst Mrs Malaprop, Lydia’s guardian demands that she consents to the marriage. But a modicum of deception is involved.

Patricia Hodge, best known for her role in 'Rumpole of the Bailey', stars as Mrs Malaprop. Together with Robert Bathurst, star of 'Cold Feet' as Sir Anthony Absolute. Other cast members include Zoe Brough, who plays Lydia Languish, with Kit Young as Jack Absolute.

Richard Brinsley Sheridan’s satire about the tribulations if love still retains all of its sharpness under the Orange Tree Theatre's Artistic Director, Tom Littler.

Tickets range in price from between £18.00 and £57.00 inclusive of a transaction fee. Brochure printing can be a useful resource when it comes to the promotion of a play or theatrical event.

The Rivals will run from Tuesday 27th to Saturday 31st January at the Theatre Royal, Bath.