The Gentleman Caller
by Philip Dawkins

Name: The Gentleman Caller
Brand: Philip Dawkins
SKU: 9780822239741
Rating: 4 (6 reviews)

The Gentleman Caller Book Cover — The Gentleman Caller Cover

Highlights

Small Cast

Male

Unit Set/Multiple SettingsAmerican

What readers are saying

Readers appreciate the exploration of Tennessee Williams' character in the play. However, some feel that the portrayal may not fully capture his essence, despite having moments of brilliance. Overall, audiences find the playwright's charm engaging and enjoyable.

Engaging exploration of Williams' characterCharming writing styleMay not fully capture Williams' essence

Synopsis

Tennessee Williams and William Inge today are recognized as two of the greatest American playwrights, whose work irrevocably altered the theatrical and social landscapes.

In 1944, however, neither had achieved anything like genuine success.

As flamboyantgenius Williams prepares for the world premiere of his play The Gentleman Caller--to become The Glass Menagerie--self-loathing Inge struggles through his job as a theater critic, denying his true wish to be writing plays.

Based on real-life but closed-door encounters, reconstructed from troves of comments (and elisions) by each man about their relationship, the author envisions what might have taken place during those early-career meetings.

(from publisher's website)

Press Reviews

"Tennessee Williams and William Inge make a tragic duo for the ages… It’s a beautiful play, equal parts Williams, Inge, and Dawkins himself—a stiff, intoxicating cocktail that knocks you flat on your back and leaves you there… it is utter, tragic perfection."
— Time Out Chicago

"THE GENTLEMAN CALLER is a beautiful piece of work. Its examination of two of America’s most lyrical playwrights is itself poetic and artful; one can hear echoes of both real men’s plays…Knowing the playwrights does help, but it isn’t by any means necessary; Dawkins provides all of the needed background within the script. But he doesn’t allow the play to become bogged down by the elegance of its lines; rather, he couches everything in (often dark) humor…It’s a remarkable work about remarkable classic playwrights from a pretty remarkable Chicago playwright."
— Chicago On Stage