Plays
Plays
Enjoy dramatic performances with Plays in audiobook format at Sol Good Media. Experience ad-free, classic and contemporary dialogues that entertain.
X Minus One Project
by Sol Good Network
This is a collection of public domain science fiction stories which were turned into half-hour plays for the classic mid-1950's American radio series, X Minus One.
Twelfth Night
by William Shakespeare
Hidden and mistaken identities, requited and unrequited loves, pranks and jokes abound in this romantic comedy.
The Alchemist
by Ben Johnson
An outbreak of plague in London forces a gentleman, Lovewit, to flee temporarily to the country, leaving his house under the sole charge of his butler, Jeremy. Jeremy uses the opportunity given to him to use the house as the headquarters for fraudulent acts. He transforms himself into 'Captain Face', and enlists the aid of Subtle, a fellow conman and Dol Common, a prostitute. In The Alchemist, Jonson unashamedly satirizes the follies, vanities and vices of mankind, most notably greed-induced credulity. People of all social classes are subject to Jonson's ruthless, satirical wit. He mocks human weakness and gullibility to advertising and to "miracle cures" with the character of Sir Epicure Mammon, who dreams of drinking the elixir of youth and enjoying fantastic sexual conquests. The Alchemist focuses on what happens when one human being seeks advantage over another. In a big city like London, this process of advantage-seeking is rife. The trio of con-artists - Subtle, Face and Dol - are self-deluding small-timers, ultimately undone by the same human weaknesses they exploit in their victims.
Northanger Abbey - Jane Austen
by Jane Austen
Northanger Abbey follows seventeen-year-old Gothic novel aficionado Catherine Morland and family friends Mr. and Mrs. Allen as they visit Bath. It is Catherine's first visit there. She meets new friends, such as Isabella Thorpe, and goes to balls. Catherine finds herself pursued by Isabella's brother, the rough-mannered, slovenly John Thorpe, and by her real love interest, Henry Tilney. She also becomes friends with Eleanor Tilney, Henry's younger sister. Henry captivates her with his view on novels and his knowledge of history and the world. General Tilney (Henry and Eleanor's father) invites Catherine to visit their estate, Northanger Abbey, which, from her reading of Ann Radcliffe's Gothic novel The Mysteries of Udolpho, she expects to be dark, ancient and full of Gothic horrors and fantastical mystery.
The Merchant of Venice
by William Shakespeare
William Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice was probably written between 1596 and 1598, and was printed with the comedies in the First Folio of 1623. Bassanio, an impoverished gentleman, uses the credit of his friend, the merchant Antonio, to borrow money from a wealthy associate. Antonio pledges to pay Shylock a pound of flesh if he defaults on the loan, which Bassanio will use to woo a rich heiress, Portia.
He and She
by Rachel Crothers
A feminist drama that gained considerable critical and commercial success when it originally ran on Broadway. The play is about a husband and wife who also happen to be artists. A socially conscious battle of the sexes ensues over professional jealousy and whether the woman's place in the home should be thrown over for occupational dreams.
The Spanish Tragedy - A Dramatic Reading
by Thomas Kyd
Step into the world of revenge and tragedy with Thomas Kyd's 'The Spanish Tragedy.' Join Hieronimo, a grieving father determined to seek justice for his son's murder, as he navigates the treacherous and violent realm of the Spanish court. Explore the enthralling characters, rich language, and dramatic twists in this early masterpiece of Elizabethan drama. Dive into the compelling narrative and discover why 'The Spanish Tragedy' has captivated audiences for centuries.
Antigone
by Sophocles
This is the final installment in Sophocles' Theban Plays, following Oedipus Rex and Oedipus at Colonus. Oedipus's daughter Antigone deliberately breaks the laws of Thebes when she buries her brother's body and is sentenced to death. She clashes with Creon, the King of Thebes, over what constitutes justice and morality: the laws of the state or the laws of the individual.
The Tempest
by William Shakespeare
Exiled from his rightful domain by a treacherous sibling, Prospero and his daughter Miranda have endured a life of solitude on a deserted island for many years. However, destiny intervenes, bringing Prospero's usurping brother within the grasp of his magical abilities. The question looms: Will Prospero pursue vengeance, or will he choose the path of reconciliation? Explore this timeless tale of forgiveness and redemption in William Shakespeare's enchanting play, "The Tempest," where the choices of its characters will shape their fates.
A Doll's House
by Henrik Ibsen
If you're a fan of classic literature and are looking for a thought-provoking and insightful read, then you should definitely give "A Doll's House" a listen. This play, written by Henrik Ibsen, follows the story of Nora, a housewife who is trapped in a loveless marriage and confined to the role of a doll in a dollhouse. As she begins to question the society that has trapped her and the expectations placed on her as a woman, Nora embarks on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. With its powerful themes and memorable characters, "A Doll's House" is a must-listen for anyone interested in feminist literature or the human condition. So if you're ready to delve into a thought-provoking and insightful read, give "A Doll's House" a try.
A Midsummer Night's Dream
by William Shakespeare
If you're a fan of classic literature and are looking for a light-hearted and whimsical read, then you should definitely give "A Midsummer Night's Dream" a listen. This play, written by William Shakespeare, follows the adventures of a group of young lovers who become caught up in a series of misadventures and misunderstandings as they navigate the complexities of love and relationships. With its memorable characters, magical setting, and humorous plot, "A Midsummer Night's Dream" is a must-listen for anyone in the mood for a light-hearted and entertaining read. So if you're ready to be whisked away to a magical world of love, mischief, and magic, give "A Midsummer Night's Dream" a try.
The School Mistress
by Arthur Wing Pinero
Step into the world of Victorian England with Arthur Wing Pinero's 'The School Mistress.' Follow the story of a young woman's journey as she navigates the societal norms of the time and pursues her passion for teaching. Immerse yourself in the intricacies of the Victorian era and experience the triumphs and tribulations of a strong-willed protagonist. Listen to 'The School Mistress' today and indulge in the rich storytelling and vivid characters of one of the most celebrated playwrights of the time.
Amphitryon or, Jupiter in Disguise
by Titus Maccius Plautus
Dive into the whirlwind world of mistaken identities and romantic entanglements with "Amphitryon or, Jupiter in Disguise." Titus Maccius Plautus' timeless comedy comes alive in this podcast, offering a delightful journey through love, deception, and the follies of infidelity, all set against the enchanting backdrop of ancient mythology. Whether you're a fan of classic literature or just in search of a captivating story, this episode is your ticket to a world where gods walk among mortals.
The Rehearsal
by George Villiers
Are you ready for a hilarious dive back into the Restoration era? Join us as we explore 'The Rehearsal,' a satirical masterpiece first graced the stage in 1671. This play turns the spotlight on the overly dramatic tragedies of its time, all through the lens of three playwrights ambitiously crafting a new theatrical work. Witness the chaos and comedy as actors bring to life their outlandish scenes. Don't miss out on this witty critique of 17th-century drama. Tune in to our latest episode for an uproarious journey through 'The Rehearsal'—where history, humor, and theatrical antics collide
The Beauty Stone
by Arthur Wing Pinero
Not your usual Pinero play. Gilbert and Sullivan had stopped collaborating, and so Pinero - at the height of his very successful career - and a lyricist named Comyns Carr were teamed up with Sullivan to prepare this "romantic musical drama in three acts". It is sorta the Faust story with the Devil, a magic stone that enhances the appearance of its wearer, and all the peoples of a medieval village and castle. Sorry to say, we are not including Sullivan's music in this release.
The London Prodigal
by William Shakespeare
The London Prodigal is a play in English Renaissance theatre, a city comedy set in London, in which a prodigal son learns the error of his ways.
Chicago
by Maurine Watkins
"Chicago," the sensational Broadway play that inspired the acclaimed musical, brings to life the enthralling Jazz-age saga of Roxie Hart, the notorious murderess, and her shrewd lawyer, Billy Flynn. This captivating drama, which has seen multiple adaptations including a 1927 silent film, offers a raw and unfiltered glimpse into a bygone era. Note: The play contains strong language and provocative themes, reflecting the period's gritty realism.
The Dead
by James Joyce
A group of Dubliners gather together for a Christmas celebration in James Joyce's transcendent tale of the mundanity and magic in life and death. "The Dead" is taken from Joyce's collection of short stories Dubliners.
King Lear
by William Shakespeare
King Lear is widely held as the greatest of Shakespeare's tragedies; to some, it is the greatest play ever written. King Lear abdicates the British throne, to divide his kingdom among his three daughters in proportion to their professed love of him. His plan misfires when Cordelia, his youngest and favorite daughter, refuses to flatter her father; she is disinherited and banished.
Lady Susan - Dramatic Reading
by Jane Austen
Jane Austen demonstrated her mastery of the epistolary novel genre in Lady Susan, which she wrote in 1795 but never published. Although the primary focus of this short novel is the selfish behavior of Lady Susan as she engages in affairs and searches for suitable husbands for herself and her young daughter, the actual action shares its importance with Austen’s manipulation of her characters' behavior by means of their reactions to the letters that they receive. The heroine adds additional interest by altering the tone of her own letters based on the recipient of the letter. Thus, the character of Lady Susan is developed through many branches as Austen suggests complications of identity and the way in which that identity is based on interaction rather than on solitary constructions of personality. Lady Susan’s character is also built by the descriptions of the other letter-writers; but even though their opinions of this heroine coincide with the image that develops from her own letters, Austen demonstrates the subjectivity of the opinions by presenting them – primarily – in the letters of one woman to another, thereby suggesting the established literary motifs of feminine gossip and jealousy. Readers recognize these subjective motifs and examine all of the idiosyncrasies of the characters in order to create their own opinion of Lady Susan – as they would of any real acquaintance.
Much Ado About Nothing
by William Shakespeare
Written around the middle of his career, Much Ado About Nothing is one of Shakespeare's great festive comedies. The men are back from the war, and everyone is ready for romance. The dashing young Claudio falls for Hero, the daughter of Leonato, governor of Messina, and his friend Don Pedro helps him secure her affection. These youthful lovers are contrasted with the more experienced (and more cynical) Benedick and Beatrice, who have to be tricked into falling in love. Don Pedro's bastard brother, Don John, provides the intrigue, and the dimwitted constable Dogberry provides the laughs.
The Misanthrope
by Moliere
Alceste, the misanthrope, hates everyone including himself. But unlike in many pure farces with their cliche stock characters, the characters here are much more well rounded, and who knows - Alceste might actually grow and change throughout the play. "Those who admired noble thoughts, select language, accurate deliniations of character, and a perfect and entertaining style, placed this comedy from the very beginning where it is generally put, with the common consent of all students of sound literature, in the foremost rank of the good comedies of Moliere.
The Parenticide Club
by Ambrose Bierce
Get ready for a dark and twisted tale with The Parenticide Club by Ambrose Bierce! In this short story, a group of men plot to kill their own parents in order to inherit their wealth, only to be haunted by the ghosts of their victims. With its macabre plot, chilling atmosphere, and themes of greed and guilt, The Parenticide Club is a must-listen for anyone who loves a good horror story. So why wait? Start listening to The Parenticide Club today and let Bierce's writing send a chill down your spine.
The Romancers
by Edmond Rostand
If you're a fan of theater and romance, then you should definitely give "The Romancers" by Edmond Rostand a listen. This classic play, first performed in France in 1896, is a delightful and humorous tale of love and mistaken identity. The characters are charming and the dialogue is clever and witty, making for a highly entertaining and engaging listening experience. Plus, the themes of love and self-discovery are timeless and universal, making the play still relevant today. So if you want to be entertained and swept up in a romantic comedy, give "The Romancers" by Edmond Rostand a listen.
The Spanish Tragedy
by Thomas Kyd
The Spanish Tragedy, or Hieronimo is Mad Again is an Elizabethan tragedy written by Thomas Kyd between 1582 and 1592. Highly popular and influential in its time, The Spanish Tragedy established a new genre in English theatre, the revenge play or revenge tragedy. Its plot contains several violent murders and includes as one of its characters a personification of Revenge. The Spanish Tragedy was often referred to (or parodied) in works written by other Elizabethan playwrights, including William Shakespeare, Ben Jonson, and Christopher Marlowe. Many elements of The Spanish Tragedy, such as the play-within-a-play used to trap a murderer and a ghost intent on vengeance, appear in Shakespeare's Hamlet. (Thomas Kyd is frequently proposed as the author of the hypothetical Ur-Hamlet that may have been one of Shakespeare's primary sources for Hamlet.)
The Tragedy of Macbeth
by William Shakespeare
Murder and madness, witches and war: Macbeth, perhaps Shakespeare's best known tragedy. Macbeth, a general in King Duncan's army, is given a prophecy by a trio of witches: he himself will become king. Fired by ambition and goaded by his ruthless wife, he murders Duncan and assumes the throne. More killings follow as Macbeth attempts to retain his crown, until he discovers that prophecies are not always what they seem.
The Village Coquettes
by Charles Dickens
Before he started writing novels, Charles Dickens tried his hand at theater. The Village Coquettes is a two act musical. Sadly the music was lost long ago so this will be a spoken version.
Venus and Adonis
by William Shakespeare
Experience the poetic masterpiece of William Shakespeare's 'Venus and Adonis.' Immerse yourself in the passionate and tragic tale of the goddess of love and her infatuation with a handsome mortal. Discover the beauty of Shakespeare's language and the depth of his storytelling. Get your copy of 'Venus and Adonis' today and experience the timeless brilliance of one of the greatest writers in history.
Cyrano de Bergerac
by Edmond Rostand
One of the most beloved French plays of all time, Cyrano de Bergerac is a clever and tragic tale of truth concealed and love denied. Its titular character is a proud, daring swordsman and genius poet who has one terrible flaw: an abnormally large nose. Too afraid of rejection to confess his love for the beautiful Roxane, Cyrano helps her brainless but handsome suitor Christian to woo her, providing him with love letters while resolutely keeping his own passion a secret.
Excuse Me!
by Rupert Hughes
Step back in time and explore the dazzling world of Hollywood with Rupert Hughes' 'Excuse Me!' Follow the story of Tom and Betty Bartlett, as they navigate the glamour and intrigue of the movie industry in its golden age. Experience the power of storytelling to transport us to another time and place, and to reveal the hidden depths of the human experience.
Faust
by Johann Goethe
Faust is a two-part tragedy play written by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. The story revolves around the character of Faust, a scholar who is unsatisfied with his life and makes a pact with the devil, Mephistopheles, in exchange for unlimited knowledge and worldly pleasures. As Faust indulges in his newfound powers, he experiences moments of joy and fulfillment, but also intense suffering and regret. The play explores themes of temptation, redemption, and the dangers of excessive ambition. Goethe's "Faust" is celebrated for its vivid characters, intricate plot, and its combination of poetic and dramatic elements. It is considered one of the greatest works of German literature and has been adapted into various forms, including operas, films, and other literary works.
Characters of Shakespeare's Plays
by William Hazlitt
This famous Shakespearean exploration illuminates its plays through the frame of character, while also weighing theme, mood, structure and poetics. In it, 19th-century critic William Hazlitt unveils Shakespeare's genius in creating and infusing characters with a life-likeness that often challenges, if not overshadows, more material human nature -- in both inner and outer worlds. As he writes: "The characters breathe, move, and live, ... think and speak and act just as they might do, if left entirely to themselves." The first printing sold out in weeks, and the second sold briskly, until a harsh and antagonistic appraisal in The Quarterly Review quelled sales altogether -- and unraveled Hazlitt's critical cachet in the eyes of the general public. Not until the mid-twentieth century were Hazlitt and his works re-evaluated, when he was finally recognized as one of Shakespeare's foremost critics of all time. In literary criticism, the renowned Harold Bloom ranks Hazlitt second only to Dr. Johnson.
Everyman
by The Guild
If you're interested in literature and history, then you should definitely give "Everyman" a listen. This classic story, dating back to 1495, is a morality play that explores the theme of death and the ultimate fate of the human soul. The story follows the character Everyman, who is confronted with his own mortality and must account for his actions in life. The allegorical nature of the story makes it a thought-provoking and timeless tale that is still relevant today. Plus, the story is short and easy to follow, making it a great choice for those looking for a quick, engaging listen. So if you want to dive into a classic work of literature and explore timeless themes, give "Everyman" a listen.
Arms and The Man
by George Bernard Shaw
Arms and the Man is a comedy written by George Bernard Shaw, and was first produced in 1894 and published in 1898, and has become one of the most popular of his plays. Like his other works, Arms and the Man questions conventional values and uses war and love as his satirical targets. He delightfully pops the bubble of the 'brave soldier' always wishing to charge into battle and shows (I think) how people stay the same whether in uniform or not and are not magically changed into different people. A cautious soldier can be just as admirable as a reckless one. -
A Wine of Wizardy
by George Sterling
A dark and moody collection of poems, influenced by the author's experience of nature, rather than an idealized notion of it. "The uncrowned King of Bohemia," as his friends called him, published this work against much public criticism.
Emma - Dramatic Reading
by Jane Austen
This Dramatic Reading of Emma is a novel about youthful hubris and the perils of misconstrued romance....As in her other novels, Austen explores the concerns and difficulties of genteel women living in Georgian-Regency England; she also creates a lively comedy of manners among her characters. Before she began the novel, Austen wrote, "I am going to take a heroine whom no one but myself will much like." In the very first sentence she introduces the title character as "Emma Woodhouse, handsome, clever, and rich." Emma, however, is also rather spoiled, headstrong, and self-satisfied; she greatly overestimates her own matchmaking abilities; she is blind to the dangers of meddling in other people's lives, and her imagination and perceptions often lead her astray.
Cato
by Joseph Addison
Enter the world of political intrigue and moral dilemmas with Joseph Addison's 'Cato.' Follow the story of Cato, a Roman statesman, as he grapples with the decisions and consequences of leadership in times of crisis. Immerse yourself in the complexities of the human condition and the timeless themes of honor, duty, and sacrifice.
Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen
by Jane Austen
The story is about Elinor and Marianne, two daughters of Mr Dashwood by his second wife. They have a younger sister, Margaret, and an older half-brother named John. When their father dies, the family estate passes to John, and the Dashwood women are left in reduced circumstances. The novel follows the Dashwood sisters to their new home, a cottage on a distant relative's property, where they experience both romance and heartbreak. The contrast between the sisters' characters is eventually resolved as they each find love and lasting happiness. Through the events in the novel, Elinor and Marianne encounter the sense and sensibility of life and love.
Romeo and Juliet
by William Shakespeare
Romeo and Juliet is an early tragedy by William Shakespeare about two teenage "star-cross'd lovers" whose "untimely deaths" ultimately unite their feuding households. The play has been highly praised by literary critics for its language and dramatic effect. It was among Shakespeare's most popular plays during his lifetime and, along with Hamlet, is one of his most frequently performed plays. Its influence is still seen today, with the two main characters being widely represented as archetypal young lovers.
Julius Caesar
by William Shakespeare
Dive into the heart of political intrigue and betrayal with Shakespeare's 'The Tragedy of Julius Caesar.' Experience the raw emotions and tense alliances as the conspiracy against Rome's mighty leader unfolds. Written in the prime of Shakespeare's career and first showcased at the iconic Globe Theater, this timeless drama offers a riveting look at ambition, loyalty, and the consequences of unchecked power. Join the audience of history and witness a tale that has enthralled generations. Listen now and be transported to the turbulent streets of ancient Rome!
Richard III
by William Shakespeare
Dive deep into the intrigues of the English court with Shakespeare's riveting "Richard III". Experience the rise and fall of the power-hungry Duke of Gloucester in this captivating historical play. If you're a fan of drama, politics, and Shakespearean brilliance, this is a must-listen. Press play and immerse yourself in the battle for the throne!
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
by Jane Austen
Pride and Prejudice is a novel by Jane Austen, first published in 1813. The story follows the main character Elizabeth Bennet as she deals with issues of manners, upbringing, morality, education and marriage in the society of the landed gentry of early 19th-century England. Elizabeth is the second of five daughters of a country gentleman, living near the fictional town of Meryton in Hertfordshire, near London.
Hamlet
by William Shakespeare
Venture into the heart of one of Shakespeare's most renowned masterpieces, Hamlet. Drawing from ancient Danish tales and the popular Elizabethan genre of revenge plays, Shakespeare weaves a compelling narrative filled with philosophical quandaries, familial conflict, and eerie supernatural elements. After the sudden demise of his father, Prince Hamlet discovers the rapid ascension of his Uncle Claudius to the throne, swiftly marrying his mother, Queen Gertrude. When a ghostly apparition reveals a sinister secret, Hamlet is thrust into a tumultuous journey of vengeance. As the tension builds, one question looms: Can Hamlet exact his revenge before time runs out?
Mansfield Park by Jane Austen
by Jane Austen
Mansfield Park is Jane Austen's 1814 novel focusing on Fanny Price, the daughter of a poor Portsmouth family, who is taken to live with her aunt and uncle Bertram's family on their estate at the age of ten. Surrounded by her wealthy and privileged cousins, and continually reminded of her lower status by her bullying Aunt Norris, Fanny grows up timid and shy, but with a strong sense of ethics, partly instilled by her kindly cousin Edmund. Fanny's gratitude and friendship for Edmund gradually grow into love, but the introduction of Mary and Henry Crawford, a captivating sister and brother, into the neighborhood of Mansfield Park, confuses and complicates the affections of the Bertram household.