The Rivals

Wealthy heiress Lydia Languish is determined to marry for love, even if this means she is forced into poverty. Realising this, the aristocratic Captain Jack Absolute woos her while claiming to be Ensign Beverley.

Lydia’s aunt, Mrs Malaprop, will not permit her to wed a mere ensign, and proposes another gentleman, Squire Acres. Jack’s father, Sir Anthony Absolute, arrives unexpectedly and tells his son that he’s chosen a wife for him — meanwhile Sir Lucius O’Trigger continues his efforts to win over the mysterious Delia.

The Rivals by Richard Brinsley Sheridan, directed by Ian Guy and Ivanhoe Norona, ran for three nights at the village hall.

Performed by Exeter Drama Company on 13th–15th March 2025.

Production photo: Exeter Drama Company. Used with permission.