TCG Announces The Publication Of Richard Wilbur's Translation Of Moliere’s Comedies

Theatre Communications Group (TCG) is pleased to announce publication of the first two books in their new paperback series of Richard Wilbur's world-renownEd English verse translations of five Molière comedies, gems of French neo-classical drama, for years available only in acting editions. The series' four volumes include a foreword by John Simon; an interview with Wilbur, by Dana Gioia; as well as Wilbur's introductions to the plays, and cover designs by Chip Kidd. Together, they will complete the trade publication of these vital theatrical works.

Collected in the first book are School for Husbands and The Imaginary Cuckold, or Sganarelle, two grand farces of marriage and misunderstanding, one set in Paris and the other in the provinces. During Molière's lifetime, they were the most produced plays by his company. The second book is Lovers' Quarrels, Molière's second verse comedy, featuring a heroine masquerading as a man, yet unable to evade Cupid. It premiered in 1656 with the author playing the role of the irascible Albert. The third book, The Bungler, will be published in winter 2009/2010; Amphitryon will conclude the series in spring 2010.

Richard Wilbur's translations of Molière's plays have delighted readers and audiences
throughout the world. "Molière's language is readily understood by any American audience," says Wilbur. "So are the plots. The hardest thing is to find, playing with and against the pentameter, just the right timing for a witty or comical line. And speak-ability is so important.  That's something I slowly had to learn about poetry, and something I had to work on always with Molière."

Richard Wilbur is a two-time winner of the Pulitzer Prize, and a former Poet Laureate
of the United States. He is the author of more than thirty-five books, including works of poetry, translation, prose, children's books and essays.

Theatre Communications Group (TCG) is the national organization for the American theatre.  TCG is dedicated to nurturing professional, not-for-profit American theatre institutions, artists, and audiences, and to fulfilling its mission to strengthen, nurture and promote professional, not-for-profit field.  TCG initiatives include a variety of artistic, management, international and advocacy programs.  TCG's many publications offer a national resource for reference, opinion, and debate on theatre and the performing arts today. TCG publishes American Theatre magazine, ARTSEARCH, and books on theatre and performing arts. Please visit our website and online bookstore at www.tcg.org.

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