Sir Hector Benbow invites Cherry, a pretty shop assistant, to dine. Arriving home, he finds not only Cherry but Mrs Frush, to whom he has rented Thark, his niece’s Norfolk house. Mrs Frush complains Thark is haunted. To distract Lady Benbow's attention from Cherry, he suggests everyone go to Thark, which lives up to its spine-chilling reputation. A wild night, sinister butler and plethora of romantic mix-ups add to the lively proceedings.
Set in a seaside retreat, the story revolves around Gerald, who finds himself in a comedic predicament when a beautiful stranger named Rhoda seeks refuge from her overbearing stepfather. As he navigates the challenges of hiding her presence from prying neighbors, tensions rise with the arrival of his wife, Clara. Gerald's attempts to maintain his innocence lead to misunderstandings and humorous situations, creating a lively dynamic among the six women and five men involved.
Set against a backdrop of unexpected romance and humor, the story follows Alma, a wealthy widow who has avoided intimacy for twenty years. After marrying Victor, a financially struggling gentleman who shares her disinterest in sex, their relationship is initially based on friendship. However, the arrival of Victor's son and his unconventional girlfriend, along with Alma's free-spirited cousin, reignites her passions, leading to surprising developments that promise fulfillment for both Alma and Victor.
Ben Travers, a master of the 'Aldwych Farces,' showcases his comedic genius in this collection featuring four of his most iconic plays: Rookery Nook, Thark, Plunder, and The Bed Before Yesterday. Celebrating the resurgence of farces, the collection highlights Travers' characteristic wit and humor. Notably, several plays have seen modern revivals, including Plunder at the National Theatre and Rookery Nook at the Menier Chocolate Factory, reaffirming their enduring appeal and relevance in contemporary theater.
The book is a facsimile reprint of a scarce antiquarian work, preserving its historical significance despite potential imperfections like marks and flawed pages. It reflects a commitment to protecting and promoting literature by making culturally important texts accessible in high-quality, modern editions that remain true to the original.
Stranded at a remote inn, Peter Wykeham and the alluring Mrs. Marguerite Hickett must pose as a married couple to secure a room for the night. Their ruse spirals into chaos when their actual spouses arrive, leading to a whirlwind of misunderstandings and confrontations. The story features a mix of six women and seven men, exploring themes of deception and relationships in a comedic setting.