It’s spring on the road to Canterbury. Alyson of Bath, cloth-maker, widow, pilgrim, and five-times-married expert in the arts of love, has plenty to say and no intention of holding her tongue. As hooves clip-clop and birdsong bubbles, she tells of husbands rich and foolish, charming and cruel, and the hard bargains of love. Then comes her tale of a young knight, a terrible crime, and a question that sends him wandering the world in search of an answer no one can agree on. A hilarious and beautiful poetic romp of word, wit and song, the play bristles with provocation and, just maybe, whispers a hard-won truth about love, power, and what women most desire.
The Wife is The Rude Mechanical Theatre Company’s original musical play inspired by Chaucer’s Wife of Bath. Bursting with live music, poetry and physical comedy, this outdoor production is by turns hilarious, provocative and tender. Touring towns and villages across southern England this summer.
Running time: Approximately two and a half hours, including interval.
Audience: Adults; suitable for mature children able to sit for the full performance.
Performances take place outdoors unless otherwise stated. Audiences are advised to bring warm clothing and a low-backed chair. Seating is unallocated. Sites open in advance for picnics.
For ticket prices, access information and full tour dates, please visit www.therudes.co.uk
“Highly entertaining” – Time Out (The Wife)
Selected press on the work of The Rude Mechanical Theatre Company
“A delight” – The Independent on Sunday
“Superbly done” – The Stage
“Such a good night” – The Times
Event Venue
Friston, Eastbourne, UK, United Kingdom
