Description

A Doctor in Spite of Himself is a two-act sharpened version of a charming French classic, adapted for today’s producing groups. Sganarelle, a shiftless woodcutter, quarrels with his wife, Martine, who vows to get even with him. Her chance comes when she meets two servants in search of a doctor to cure their master’s daughter. Martine recommends her husband in the most glowing terms, as a doctor who can perform miracles, but warns them that he will have to be beaten into it. Armed with slapsticks, the two men hail Sganarelle as a great doctor, whack him roundly whenever he attempts to deny it, and thus force him into becoming a doctor in spite of himself. Fortunately, the master’s daughter is only shamming illness to avoid a distasteful marriage. When Sganarelle is able to unite her with her own true love, she is miraculously curedeand Dr. Sganarelle is richly rewarded. Three sets. French costumes of the 17th century, or modern, if preferred. Approximate running time: 60 minutes.

Also Available:Shorter One-Act Play