Dickensians! discussion
This topic is about
The Strange Gentleman
Dramatic Dickens! Year
>
The Strange Gentleman: A Comic Burletta, in Two Acts (hosted by Connie)
date
newest »
newest »
Yes, Jean, "The Victorian City" does mention street food near the theatres. That was a terrific side read. I'm glad I bought the book since I've used it as a reference many times since reading it.
These street food stalls are still popular all over most cities in the form of food trucks these days. There is a food truck competition in a small town here in Texas and it was a fun trip to take and experience. So many of today’ s food truck offerings are pretty fancy compared to a baked potato or coffee. I would have loved to have experienced the Victorian version. Ok, I cannot help but point out the line from today’s reading that had me chuckling. When Charles Tompkins says “My darling Fanny, let me strain you to my bosom.”
It’s obviously not the way we say things nowadays, and it sounds so weird and funny to me.
Lori wrote: "These street food stalls are still popular all over most cities in the form of food trucks these days. There is a food truck competition in a small town here in Texas and it was a fun trip to take ..."That sounds like a fun day at the food truck competition. Some food trucks are noted for their delicious ethnic food. There have been many breweries and wineries opening in my state, and they don't want to get into the restaurant business with all their regulations. So they have a rotation of food trucks that park outside the businesses when they have tastings.
Lori, it's amazing how much language changes over the years!
Charles seems like he has a quick temper, and is quick to draw conclusions. Of course, Dickens needs him to react with jealousy for the plot.
I’ve just gotten caught up to everyone, and I’m so grateful to join the discussion before the play ends. I didn’t there could be any more plot twists, yet now poor Fanny and Charles are trapped in misunderstanding as well! This play is a riot! How will Dickens ever unwind all these plots strands?? I love it!!Thank you Connie for all the excellent supplemental information.
Glad you made it, Bridget. I love the way the identity of the "Strange Gentleman" keeps changing.
Bridget wrote: "I’ve just gotten caught up to everyone, and I’m so grateful to join the discussion before the play ends. I didn’t there could be any more plot twists, yet now poor Fanny and Charles are trapped in ..."It's great to have you back and caught up with your reading, Bridget! We'll be seeing how Dickens sorts out all the complications during the next three days.
Summary 12 - Act 2, Scene 2 BeginsScene 2 has a different type of set--a gallery. This is a raised hallway with six doors leading into bedrooms. There are stairs going up to the hallway. The bedrooms are numbered 20-25 beginning at stage right, and a pair of boots is outside door 23. The stage must be dimly lit since the staff members need to carry lights or lanterns.
Charles is ushered by the chambermaid into room 21. He wonders if the boots outside room 23 belong to a rival.
Mrs Noakes brings Mary and Fanny to room 20. Fanny is nervous and asks Mrs Noakes where the Strange Gentleman is sleeping. She is told he is sleeping in room 23 with his boots outside the door, and Tom Sparks guarding him.
Mrs Noakes checks with Tom to see if the Strange Gentleman is sleeping. Tom says he punched the Strange Gentleman and he's quiet now. Mrs Noakes reminds Tom that the Strange Gentleman will be taken away at 1:30 am to the asylum.
Julia Dobbs comes up the stairs, and is shown into room 22 to change her clothes for traveling. Mrs Noakes thinks that Julia is the aunt of the Strange Gentleman, and that she will be traveling with her nephew. Mrs Noakes says she's going to check downstairs to see if Mayor Overton wants more negus, a hot drink of port, sugar, lemons, and spices.
John Johnson (Mary's boyfriend) comes down the hall to room 24. He's still hoping to raise money to continue on his trip. He places his boots outside the door.
Charles (Fanny's boyfriend) puts his boots outside room 21.
Room 20-Mary and Fanny
Room 21-Charles Tomkins
Room 22-Julia Dobbs
Room 23-The Strange Gentleman, guarded by Tom Sparks
Room 24-John Johnson
Room 25-empty
The funniest part here for me was Charles Tomkins seeing the boots as “ill-looking” and “underhanded”! Everyone is under the same roof now and what happens next is really going to prove chaotic!
It's a crazy situation, Lori! I don't trust the Boots who punched the Strange Gentleman and carries a big stick. (I do think the Boots would be a fun character for the right comic actor to play!)
Connie, thanks for the list of where everyone is sleeping. I have a feeling I will need to refer back to that when i read the next section. This just keeps getting more funny.
Bridget, I had to make a list for myself because I was getting confused!
Summary 13 - Act 2, the middle of Scene 2Tom Sparks goes out into the hallway to mark the room numbers on the boots sitting outside the rooms of the Strange Gentleman, John, and Charles. The Boots notices the condition and quality of the leather of the various boots in the hallway. He makes a comment that men with inexpensive boots never spend much on food and drinks at the inn. Then he exits with the boots for cleaning and polishing.
Fanny goes to room 23, thinking that Charles is there. She intends on checking to see if he's feeling better and is sleeping well, and knocks on the door.
Charles (who really is in room 21) opens his door a sliver, and sees Fanny knocking at the door of room 23 (the Strange Gentleman's room). Charles feels very upset.
Fanny goes back to room 20, the room she is sharing with her sister.
Charles goes into room 24 since he can watch better there.
Fanny returns to room 23 and knocks again.
The Strange Gentleman opens the door of room 23, and Fanny screams and runs back into room 20.
The Strange Gentleman is happy that the horrid Boots is gone, and will wait for the Mayor to take him out of the inn. The Strange Gentleman thinks that everyone is going mad--and they think the same thing about him.
DoorsUsually this type of scene is played quickly, and the actors have to have perfect timing as they open and close the doors, and react to the misunderstandings.
The Influence of Queen Victoria on the Acceptance of the Minor TheatresWhen Princess Victoria was 16 years old, she began to attend the theatre regularly, including the Minor theatres. She especially enjoyed the Victoria, the Adelphi, the Olympic, and the Lyceum, and noted that they were respectable and clean. She also attended the patent theatre at Drury Lane frequently.
However when she became Queen, she could no longer attend the illegitimate theatres and could only frequent the patent theatres and the Opera. But her interest in theatre remained high, and her diaries record conversations she had with senior politicians about the theatre.
According to Richard Pearson, "The debate about the suitability of the Minor theatres for aristocratic patronage was being debated at the highest level. But the divide was one of age, too. Victoria was part of the young generation, the new urban dwellers who looked for novel popular amusements, and the melodrama, burletta, and farce were their forms. . . The Queen was able to have her actors to Windor Castle for theatrical entertainments from December 1848, and by 1854, Victoria was again a regular at the Minor theatres, frequently visiting the Olympic and Adelphi--at least until the death of Prince Albert in 1861."
Queen Victoria's love and patronage of the Minor theatres lent an air of respectability to them. The Theatres Act was passed by Parliament in 1843. Queen Victoria was not directly involved with the legislation. But it would be hard to argue that something so valued by the Queen was not respectable enough for the general population.
Pearson, Richard. "Victorian Writers and the Stage." London and New York: Palgrave Macmillan, 2015.
Queen Victoria at the Drury Lane Theatre, November 1837
Oil on panel. Artist: Edmund Parris
(First portrait of Queen Victoria made after her coronation.)
Royal Collection Trust
https://www.rct.uk/collection/405577/...
Wikipedia: Edmund Parris
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edmund_...
Mod
This is fascinating! Thank you so much Connie.
For anyone who is in one of the branches of the "Dickens Fellowship", the journal for Autumn 2023 had an article titled: "Biographical Implications of Theatrical Popular Entertainment in Dickens's Original Publications 1933-1836" which deals with this exact topic. It's by Robert C. Hanna, who has written several books on Dickens, (often religious ones) so I hope he explores this further in a new one about the theatre.
Basically he is saying that there is a lot of evidence of Charles Dickens attending these private plays and entertainments as well as the approved ones at the "Theatre Royal, Haymarket" or "Astley's Amphitheatre" for instance. Also, he refers to Dickens's own rewrites of plays for his family and friends. Robert C. Hanna quotes dozens of examples from Charles Dickens's published writings, sometimes using the "Pilgrim letters" to clarify where Charles Dickens was on a specific evening.
Sometimes Charles Dickens used the pseudonym "Tibb" or "J", as well as the "Boz" which The Strange Gentleman was performed and published under. Robert C. Hanna says that: "more than two thirds of the original 56 publications" (by this he is counting a sketch, article or play as a discrete publication) "either allude to drama and dramatic entertainment, or include theatrical language."
Robert C. Hanna names the plays (and sometimes the popular songs in them) which were showing at the time, and relates it to specific passages. He has indentified 40 examples within this 3 year time period, before Charles Dickens's novels had got going. It was thoughts of the theatre which seemed to consume his every waking hour.
You may remember from our read of Oliver Twist, that Victoria did not accede to the throne until part way through the serial. I can't help but wonder (and think it extremely likely) that the keen theatre-goer Princess Victoria came across Charles Dickens unknowingly at some of these events in minor theatres, before she was more restricted as Queen. He certainly was an ardent admirer of hers, and she admired his writing, although as far as I know it's not recorded anywhere that they met officially, until later.
Great information, Jean! I wish I was able to access Robert Hanna's article.
Mod
Thank you Connie and Jean for the added information. I’m glad Queen Victoria brought the minor plays to her, since she couldn’t go to them herself. It must have been tricky to bring all the sets, costumes, musical instruments to Windsor for one show. But then I’m sure the acting troop was compensated well, and probably it was marvelous advertising for their play.Even though it’s not recorded, I love the idea that Charles Dickens and Princess Victoria crossed paths in the theater.
Bridget wrote: "Thank you Connie and Jean for the added information. I’m glad Queen Victoria brought the minor plays to her, since she couldn’t go to them herself. It must have been tricky to bring all the sets, c..."They both admired each other. I won't add anything more since I'm trying to keep to the early years, and keep us in suspense for what Lori might be adding in her presentation.
Connie wrote: "DoorsUsually this type of scene is played quickly, and the actors have to have perfect timing as they open and close the doors, and react to the misunderstandings."
Sorry for my absence. Having to play catch-up. Thanks for pointing out about the doors. That was the first thing that struck me about the scene. The "door-play," combined with the brief exclamations, shuffling in and out of actors, and sometimes some creative lighting can make these scenes quite confusing, hilarious, and musical all at once. I guess at the time of the play, they would not have had a way to dim and raise the lights quickly, but everthing else was present. I wonder if there is a theater term for this type of scene?
Sam, I saw that type of action with the doors called "Musical Doors" in one article, but I don't know if it's an actual term or somebody was just thinking it looked a bit like people rushing around in "Musical Chairs." Have you seen the late 20th Century play, "Noises Off," which has a set full of doors with all the actors in and out in perfect timing? There's lots of mistaken identity and misunderstandings in that play, and doors are used extensively. It has a rotating set so you get the view from outside the bedrooms during part of the play, and see another view of the rooms during other scenes. The doors can be used in both views.
There's a video from Boston College showing the rotating set:
https://www.bc.edu/bc-web/bcnews/art-...
There are some photos showing one side of the Skylight Music Theatre's set in this article from the Journal Sentinel in Milwaukee:
https://www.jsonline.com/picture-gall...
Mod
Bionic Jean wrote: "It's not strictly relevant but I can't resist saying that I saw the first production of Noises Off: A Play in Three Acts by Michael Frayn in 1982 in the West End, in on..."That's wonderful, Jean! When I read "The Strange Gentleman" for the first time, I kept thinking about "Noises Off," especially with this scene. I saw the play in a small theatre, and in a big theatre years later.
It gives us an opportunity to consider how the sets had to be much simpler in Dickens' time, especially since they were using the same stage for more than one play in an evening. There would not be room backstage for several complex sets.
However, the same techniques were used by the writers in the 19th Century to entertain people and make them laugh!
Summary 14 - Act 2, Scene 2 to the end of the playMayor Overton, Mrs Noakes, Tom Sparks, and three waiters come into the hallway with lights and lanterns. The Mayor notifies the Strange Gentleman (from room 23) that his chaise is ready, and he gives him a black cloak to cover up his face as he leaves the inn.
The Strange Gentleman complains that someone has been knocking on his door. Mayor Overton says it must have been "the other party," and he brings Julia Dobbs to him, wrapped up in a large cloak too. The Strange Gentleman refuses to leave, thinking that it's an assassination plot.
Fanny, Mary, John, and Charles think that the Strange Gentleman is mad.
Mrs Noakes tells the Strange Gentleman to go with his aunt (Julia), but the gentleman does not have an aunt. Julia notices that the Strange Gentleman's voice is not Lord Peter's voice. Mary realizes now that the Strange Gentleman is not Charles Tomkins.
Mrs Noakes pulls a letter out, asking the Strange Gentleman if he is Mr Walker Trott. The letter was from Mr Tinkles stating that the duel was a ruse, and that Tinkles will have already been married to Emily Brown by the time the letter arrives.
The Strange Gentleman says that he lost a wife.
Lord Peter didn't show so Julia lost a husband.
The Strange Gentleman remembered that Mayor Overton told him that Julia was worth three thousand a year so she's wealthy! He's sympathetic to Julia's situation, and they both notice that the horses are already ordered and paid for! So the Strange Gentleman proposes to Julia.
Three post-chaises and four will be on their way to Gretna Green for three weddings. They plan to stay at the inn again on their return trip. The Strange Gentleman apologizes for all the trouble he caused.
An Apology in the Last Line"But before I go, as I fear I have given a great deal of trouble here tonight--permit me to inquire whether you will view my mistakes and perils with an indulgent eye, and consent to receive "The Strange Gentleman" again tomorrow.
In the last line, the Strange Gentleman asks the audience directly to forgive him for his youthful transgressions. He's admitting his mistakes so the audience does not condemn his behavior.
Richard Pearson writes that it was a common appeal, especially in the genre of farce:
"The real audience of Dickens' clerks, apprentices, and young newlyweds, have no reservations about the enjoyment of their theatre; but the final lines appeal to the Lord Chamberlain, the periodical critics, and the disapproving eyes of 'The Strange Gentleman's' Mrs Noakes, and ask them, 'what is there to complain about?', 'is it okay?', 'look, everyone here is happy.' The plays engage directly with a perceived threat to dignified morality by the illegitimate Minor theatres."
Pearson, Richard. "Victorian Writers and the Stage." London and New York: Palgrave Macmillan, 2015, 24-25.
Connie wrote: "Sam, I saw that type of action with the doors called "Musical Doors" in one article, but I don't know if it's an actual term or somebody was just thinking it looked a bit like people rushing around..."I had not seen Noises Off but it seems that play did the doors quite well.
It looks like we have come to the end. Connie, what a wonderful job you did in making this one extra interesting with all of your background information, summaries, insights, and extras. I enjoyed it and learned some things, but mostly I got motivated to watch more theater and read more Dickens! Thank you!
Sam, it was a pleasure to read along with a group of people who have a love for the theatre.
I loved the ending with the opening and closing doors and the surprise when the gentleman is unveiled to everyone. Happily ever after in Gretna Green, and Mr. Tinkles gets his girl as well.I will second Sam's appreciation of all you added to the read, Connie.
I loved the ending as well!! Now, I’m inclined to do what Sarah suggested awhile back, and listen to the play in one go! Connie, as always the extra information you give us is so valuable. that quote from Richard Pearson explains the soliloquy at the end. It sort of reminds me of the ending to “Midsummer Nights Dream”, where Puck has the last words:
“If we shadows have offended
Think but this and all is mended
That you have but slumbered here
While these visions did appear”
Perhaps, there is a long tradition in London theater with comedic playwrights having to get around the Lord Chamberlin’s censorship.
Well, I didn’t expect that ending for sure! What a surprise and a lovely twist for us and the audiences in Dickens days. I imagine they were pleasantly surprised as well.Connie, this has been a tremendous read and many thanks for all of the wonderful background posts. I thoroughly enjoyed it. I’m also curious to listen to the LibriVox recording. That will make such a big impact I’m sure!
Sara wrote: "I loved the ending with the opening and closing doors and the surprise when the gentleman is unveiled to everyone. Happily ever after in Gretna Green, and Mr. Tinkles gets his girl as well.I will..."
Sara, I'm glad it had a happy ending for everyone too! I enjoyed reading with everyone.
Bridget wrote: "I loved the ending as well!! Now, I’m inclined to do what Sarah suggested awhile back, and listen to the play in one go! Connie, as always the extra information you give us is so valuable. that q..."
Bridget, that's wonderful that you remembered a similar ending from Shakespeare. I read that Dickens also ended "The Village Coquettes" and "Is She His Wife" with an apology. I think the authors are trying to emphasize that it's all in good fun, and don't take things seriously. Shakespeare was living in an even more volatile time with wars between religions in some European countries, the Inquisition, burnings of witches, etc. There must have been some group that would have looked at "Midsummer's Night Dream" with disapproval!
Lori wrote: "Well, I didn’t expect that ending for sure! What a surprise and a lovely twist for us and the audiences in Dickens days. I imagine they were pleasantly surprised as well.Connie, this has been a t..."
Lori, I hope you enjoy the LibriVox version! I'm glad you read along with us and look forward to "The Frozen Deep."
Mod
In fact it has been so fabulous that I'd hate this to become submerged in our short reads, so have created a folder for "Dramatic Dickens!" Now we can refer to all the theatrical goodies here all year. (Yes that's right, our season is now set to last all year!)
Anyone coming to this thread later, please feel free to add your thoughts on The Strange Gentleman, or anything else Connie has discussed.
Thanks everyone!
I'm glad you enjoyed it, Jean. I've always loved the theatre, and learned so much about theatre history when researching this. I did become very fond of the Strange Gentleman and the Boots along the way.
Dickensians!
Books mentioned in this topic
The Strange Gentleman (other topics)Noises Off: A Play in Three Acts (other topics)
Noises Off: A Play in Three Acts (other topics)
The Strange Gentleman (other topics)
Oliver Twist (other topics)
More...
Authors mentioned in this topic
Michael Frayn (other topics)Michael Frayn (other topics)
Charles Dickens (other topics)
Robert C. Hanna (other topics)
Judith Flanders (other topics)
More...
I echo everyone else Connie - you are finding some marvellous resources for us - thank you!