Dear Reader,

Imagine a world without film, radio, music, playsor entertainment in general. The
Victorian age is regarded as the period of Queen Victorias reigning years of 1837 to 1901. It was
not only defined by its innovational prowess but by its old-fashioned demeanor, which was
notoriously known to be neglectful towards many societal issues of the day. One example of the
Victorian Ages evolutionary period was seen in the theatre industry. With the improvement in
the transportation system, theatre in the Victorian Age flourished because it took on a new
meaning. Now, not only a select few could attend theatre regularly but instead, the masses. The
theatre was now a place where all Victorians could spend their free time. The mass appeal for
theatre gave rise to a new concept of stardom. Actors and managers became celebrities to the
people, and plays sold out more often than not.
This gave way to, Acting Reality Away. As theatre in the Victorian age became a
highly sought out experience and a new source for a lucrative economy, it became competitive
for new stars to rise. Here, you will see the consequences of such competition among Londons
elite actors. Using a mix of real people and made up characters, Acting Reality Away, revolves
around the highly anticipated new play, Something Politically Romantic. The play is written
and directed by Oscar Wilde, who decided to have open auditions for the lead male character.
When a lesser known actor, Leonard Wilk, steals the spotlight from one of the most famous
theatre actors known at the time, John Holly, a chain of unfortunate events occur.
The opportunity results, represents the greed, passion, and entitlement that the Victorian
age was known for. What inspired my research was my personal interest in all things
entertainment, especially film. An Oscar Wilde play was the ages version of blockbuster film, so
I took the liberty of creating a play under his name to add effect. The inspired genres which
include: a diary entry, a play advertisement, play criticism, a short dialogue, and an eulogy, all
share the story that leads to the tragedy of Leonard Wilk. Wilk thoughts as an underdog actor,
who is ultimately killed by John Holly, represents the strive for equality in a specific field among
the Victorians. Through underlying hints in the diary entry and eulogy, you will be able to see
how twisted and life consuming theatre was for actors.
The genres equally shows the grittier side of something that seemed perfect. The research
and project also illustrate the main source of entertainment and going out in the Victorian Age.
Because theatre became re-popularized in the 19th century, theaters were held dear to the
Victorians and represented the first signs of the major entertainment industry we know today. As
you begin your journey across time with Oscar Wilde, Leonard Wilk, and John Holly, keep in
mind the time period, where much of reality was hidden by Victorians. You will see more than
you bargain for and truly understand, Acting Reality Away.

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I hope you enjoy your stay back in time.
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Sincerely,
Pranaya