Ah, Wilderness!

Play

Writers: Eugene O'Neill

Overview

Show Information

Category
Play
Number of Acts
4
First Produced
1933
Genres
Comedy
Settings
Period, Multiple Settings
Time & Place
1903, connecticut
Cast Size
medium
Licensor
Ideal for
Community Theatre, Ensemble Cast, High School, Regional Theatre
Casting Notes
Mostly male cast
Includes early teen, late teen, mature adult, young adult, adult, child characters

Synopsis

Ah, Wilderness! is one of the few comedies ever written by Eugene O’Neill. It represents a strong departure from his usual gritty family dramas in that it depicts a loving family in turn of the century Connecticut. Wilderness! is a feel-good coming-of-age story about young Richard Miller, whose romantic woes shape the play. When Richard is prevented from dating his neighbor Muriel, he goes on a drunken bender and attempts to woo the more worldly-wise Belle. Eventually Uncle Sid intervenes, brings the boy home, and puts everything right again.

Ah, Wilderness! Is a portrait of middle-class America at the beginning of the twentieth century. O’Neill is reported to have written it in under a month, and after its initial publication enjoyed a very successful reception. It was produced on Broadway and was also adapted into a film starring Mickey Rooney. Since then, Ah, Wilderness! has become known as a beloved staple of the community theater scene across the country.

Lead Characters


Ah, Wilderness! guide sections