• The Play and Its Context
  • Emily Mann on She Stoops to Conquer
  • Oliver Goldsmith: A Biography
  • Goldsmith and Georgian Comedy
  • A Comparison Between Sentimental and Laughing Comedy
  • Life and Art in Georgian England
  • Country Homes, Travel, and Inns
  • Marriage in Eighteenth-Century England
• About this Production
  • Who’s Who
  • Character Profiles
  • Interview With Nicholas Martin
• Theater in the Classroom
  • Core Curriculum Standards
  • Pre-Show Discussion Questions and Activities
  • Post-Show Discussion Questions and Activities
• Additional Resources

Emily Mann on She Stoops to Conquer

Dear Patrons,

I’ve loved She Stoops to Conquer for as long as I can remember.  It is a classic, raucous and bawdy good time in the theater. In short, it is sheer high-style entertainment. 

McCarter hasn’t produced a Restoration-style comedy since The School for Scandal in 2001.  It has been far too long. Deliciously witty and at times delightfully implausible, She Stoops to Conquer is one of the finest comedies ever written, entertaining audiences since its first performance at Covent Garden in 1773.

I am particularly happy that this production will be directed by Nicholas Martin, one of our country’s finest comedic directors. Possessing an extraordinary sense of style and a glorious sense of humor, Nicky invariably finds a way to manifest all of this on stage.  As an actor himself (he earned his Equity card acting at McCarter in the 1960s!), Nicky knows the way into an actor’s heart and soul. His effervescence is contagious, and a cadre of wonderful artists are constantly vying for their next opportunity to work with him. Nicholas Martin brings with him some of his favorite collaborators—actors and designers who have worked with him time and time again. They are the perfect team to tackle this glorious comedy.

I hope that She Stoops to Conquer transports you away from all your cares and concerns. Relax, let go and enjoy the ride!

Best Wishes,