Theatre Review: She Stoops to Conquer

Venue: Everyman, Cork

Oliver Goldsmith’s delightful comedy of manners, first staged in London in 1773, is a real crowd-pleaser that stands the test of time with its satirising of the upper class through biting humour and an elaborate set-up. Produced by UK touring company, Creative Cow, it is an antidote to the sentimental comedies that were a popular genre during the Irish playwright’s career.

The play revolves around Mr Hardcastle’s plan for his daughter, Kate, to marry the well-bred Charles Marlow, the son of an old friend. But there is a problem. Charles, when in the company of elegant women of his class, is a stuttering bag of nerves. In contrast, when talking to women of the lower classes, he is witty and confident.