Second Best Bed (Nash)
N Richard Nash
Second Best Bed
by Tim Kelly
What readers are saying
Readers enjoy the brief and engaging nature of the play, which tells a poignant story about Shakespeare and his legacy to Ann. The work is appreciated for its heartfelt theme and the exploration of personal relationships.
Engaging short storylinePoignant exploration of loveQuick and easy readOnly one review available
Synopsis
THE STORY: One of the most fascinating mysteries dealing with William Shakespeare is the fact that he left his wife, Ann Hathaway, nothing but his “second best bed.”
This odd bequest has puzzled biographers for centuries.
The play opens as several gossipy neighbors visit Anne's cottage.
They already know of the bequest and are anxious to see Anne's reaction when she hears the news, which is about to be delivered by Shakespeare's two daughters, Judith and Susanna.
The women are cheated out of their amusement by Anne's fierce faith in her husband, even though his wealth has been left to others.
However, the bard was never one to leave things as they seem and by curtain time Anne has discovered just how greatly Will loved and needed her.
It's a surprise ending that catches not only Anne unaware but the audience as well.
A delightful romantic comedy, extremely simple to stage.
About twenty minutes.
Publication
PublisherDramatists Play Service
Year1998
BindingPaperback
Pages72
LanguageEnglish
ISBN-139780822210054
ISBN-100822210053
Second Best Bed is a American comedy play written by Tim Kelly and published by Dramatists Play Service (1998).
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Paperback
Dramatists Play Service · 1998 · 72 pp
From C$121.19
Performance Rights
Available for Licensing
Amateur & Professional
Fee:Minimum Fee: $65 per performance
Restrictions: Major Markets Plus (US) / Standard Plus Add'l Postcodes (UK)
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