This is a Methuen Drama Student Edition of Richard Bean's celebrated reworking of Carlo Goldoni's farce, which premiered at the National Theatre, UK, in 2011.

The expert commentary to the play considers how Bean uses farce to discuss contemporary politics and social issues; the theatrical lineage of the play and its original from Commedia dell'Arte to contemporary farce; the art of adaptation; practical challenges and opportunities of staging a farce; and the cathartic value of slapstick comedy in modern times.

The notes section helps to decode some of the play's references that today's students may not be so familiar with such as seaside postcard humour, Carry On films and all of the 1960s cultural references.

The edition also includes an interview with Richard Bean, as well as with members of the National Theatre's production's creative team and cast.

A much-needed edition of this iconic and hugely enjoyable play, ideal for courses on contemporary theatre, adaptation and comedy studies. This is an ideal copy for GCSE and A Level students studying the play as an NEA option.