The Dramatist; Or, Stop Him Who Can! A Comedy, in Five Acts

Set in the genteel gardens of Bath, this five‑act comedy opens with two young ladies, Marianne and Letty, trading barbed observations about society and love. Their repartee pokes fun at theatrical pretensions, contrasting the old belief that drama is meant to be read with the modern demand for lively performance. A sly commentary on the state of contemporary theatre runs through the dialogue, giving listeners a taste of the period’s theatrical debates and a breezy, witty tone.

The colorful cast includes the flamboyant Vapid, the quick‑witted Lord Scratch, and the mysterious Miss Courtney, whose haunting melody hints at secret heartaches. The first act sets up romantic entanglements and family meddling, allowing humor to arise from exaggerated affectations and a subtle critique of social mores. Listeners will enjoy the lively exchanges crafted for the celebrated actor Lewis, where burlesque meets genuine feeling. As the intrigue deepens, the audience is left anticipating how the witty banter will unfold in the remaining acts.