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The Dresser: San Jose Rep Presents Classic British Backstage Drama

San Jose Repertory Theatre, Across from the San Antonio light rail station (101 Paseo de San Antonio San Jose, CA 95113)
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Full Price:
$42.00
Our Price:
$21.00*
4.8 by 4 members
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Set in World War II England, Ronald Harwood's hit Tony-nominated play tells the wry and compelling story of the relationship between a tyrannical and aging actor, "Sir," and his faithful assistant Norman, as their Shakespearean troupe struggles through strife. Ronald Harwood based the play, a touching tribute to theater and the power of friendship, on his experiences as dresser for distinguished English Shakespearean actor-manager Sir Donald Wolfit. James Carpenter and Ken Ruta star in San Jose Rep's production.

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All offers for The Dresser have expired.

The last date listed for The Dresser was Tuesday February 1, 2011 / 7:30pm.

San Jose Repertory Theatre
Across from the San Antonio light rail station,
101 Paseo de San Antonio
San Jose, CA 95113
Website
408-367-7255
10195322rep_exterior_daytime

4 Goldstar Member Reviews

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Rating_5_0
A sublime master acting class taught by two master actors, Ken Ruta and James Carpenter.
Written on Jan 31 2011

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Rating_4_0
Interesting and well done. The first act was a little long and limited in scope. Second redeemed the play.
Written on Jan 31 2011

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Rating_5_0
Breathtaking performances, beautiful sets, well staged.
Written on Jan 31 2011

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Rating_5_0
One of the best performances I have ever seen. Overall the play is excellent (well deserving of its Tony nomination). James Carpenter, as The Dresser, gives a superb, unforgettable performance. Peter O'toole could not have done better. In San Francisco, New York, or London one would pay at least $100 for no better an evening at the theatre.
Written on Jan 29 2011

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All 4 Reviews

More Information About The Dresser

Website

http://www.sjrep.com/plays/1011/dresser/index.php

Quotes & Highlights

  • "A stirring evening [that] ... burns with a love of the theatre that conquers all ... Perfectly observed, devilishly entertaining backstage lore." --The New York Times

Description

The Dresser
by Ronald Harwood
directed by Rick Lombardo
starring James Carpenter and Ken Ruta

It’s 1942 in Britain and the smell of death is in the air. The sirens howl, signaling another air raid, but inside the crumbling walls of a regional theatre in the provinces the aging actor, Sir, prepares to give his 227th performance as King Lear. Norman, Sir’s devoted, fuss-budget dresser, is barely able to take care of himself but faithfully assists Sir in near feudal servitude, massaging his ego, pampering his intellect and even creating sound effects for the Shakespearean production by Sir’s struggling troupe. This touching and poignant tribute to theatre, friendship and the human spirit in the face of great strife - be it war or one’s own debilitating mortality - proves that “the show must go on.”

The Dresser was first presented in Manchester, England, in 1980. It opened on Broadway the next year and was nominated for the 1982 Tony Award for Best Play.