Benefactors (play)

Benefactors is a 1984 play by Michael Frayn. It is set in the 1960s and concerns an idealistic architect David and his wife Jane and their relationship with the cynical Colin and his wife Sheila. David is attempting to build some new homes to replace the slum housing of Basuto Road and is gradually forced by circumstances into building skyscrapers despite his initial aversion to these. This is set against the backdrop of 1960s new housing projects. Sheila becomes his secretary but it is unclear if she is helping him or the other way around. As the title of the play suggests it is about helping people and explores some of the difficulties inherent in this or in being helped.

Benefactors
premiere programme
Written byMichael Frayn
CharactersJane
Sheila
Colin
David
Date premiered1984
Place premieredVaudeville Theatre, London
Original languageEnglish
GenreDrama
Setting1960s

Awards and nominations

Awards
Nominations
  • 1986 Drama Desk Award for Best Play
  • 1986 Tony Award for Best Play

Production Nominations

Productions

The most recent New York City revival of this play is opened November 3, 2010. It was being produced by the Off-Off Broadway company Retro Productions. It starred Heather E. Cunningham, David Ian Lee, Matthew Semler and Kristen Vaughan.

Notes

    References

    • Frayn, Michael (1984). Benefactors: A Play in Two Acts (First ed.). London: Methuen. ISBN 0-413-54160-6.
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