He is a traditional butler for the Chilterns, but definitely a modern version of a valet, with little evident respect for his employer. Rounding off the cast is Eric Strimple who plays the valet of Goring (Phipps), as well as the Chiltern butler (Mason) with distinctive differences. Goring has a disappointed father, Senator Caversham, a long-time distinguished senator played with enduring style by Doug Carlton. His expectations of an apparently ne’er do well son are lowered with each passing year as he is completely unaware of his son’s positive attributes. It is interesting to watch his reaction to the discovery that Goring is actually rather a decent human being. Cheveley, introducing her to an unprepared Washington society. Markby, an enthusiastic friend and admirer of Mrs. She exhibits the worst aspects of stereotypical feminine evil with great skill. It may be notable that in the time of Oscar Wilde, perhaps They are not so misguided about gender identification. She combines the disdainful characterization of Wilde’s with a modern slant that is equally diabolical under Adam’s direction.Ĭhristine Jolly plays the innocent yet deliberate social climbing Mrs. Cheveley, a woman of independent thinking and morality. playboy and apparent superficial social climber with some very interesting redeeming qualities. Fischaber’s talent is evident in his interpretation of this role.īrenna Crow is delightfully cheek as the lovely Chiltern niece, Mabel Chiltern, secure in her place as a Washington socialite. She is also a potential love interest of Mr. Peter Fischaber is Arthur Goring, a Washington D.C.

Gertrude Chiltern, is played by Brooke Howard, a woman supportive of her husband’s career and idealism, yet one who is easily disappointed by his failings. Her transition is believable and honest.

Set in Washington D.C., “An Ideal Husband” reveals political corruption and blackmail at its most nefarious and discusses morality in public, as well as personal, life. Wilde’s original play was first presented in 1894, and not much has changed since that time in terms of the thematic choices Wilde made. Adams's reimagining only enhances the timelessness of human fiendishness frailties, virtuousness and redemption.Ĭam Taylor plays Senator Robert Chiltern, a young senator establishing an excellent reputation as a man of integrity. Taylor matures into his role quite well. Oscar Wilde, venerated and vilified, is a playwright not to be tampered with. Yet Kate Adams successfully tweaked “An Ideal Husband” to create a play both as elegant as Wilde intended and also particularly familiar to modern audiences. Adams also directs the 3rd Act Theatre presentation kicking off 2022 with engaging success.

An ideal husband play