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82
Play • Fiction
Spain • 16th century
1965
Adult
14+ years
Man of La Mancha follows Cervantes in a 16th-century Spanish prison, where he defends his manuscript by enacting the story of Don Quixote. Don Quixote, imagining himself a knight, seeks chivalrous adventures with his companion Sancho. He mistakes an inn for a castle and a barmaid, Aldonza, for a noblewoman named Dulcinea. Despite his delusions, Don Quixote's ideals inspire others even as he faces harsh realities.
Inspirational
Fantastical
Adventurous
Bittersweet
Humorous
3,217 ratings
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Man of La Mancha by Dale Wasserman receives applause for its compelling adaptation of Cervantes' classic, replete with memorable music and poignant themes. Critics commend its passionate performances and imaginative staging. Some find the narrative pacing uneven, but most agree it captures the spirit of quixotic pursuit. Overall, it’s a celebrated theatrical gem.
Readers who relish inspirational tales of idealism and chivalry, akin to Miguel de Cervantes' Don Quixote, will enjoy Dale Wasserman's Man of La Mancha. This audience appreciates profound themes layered with whimsical adventure, much like those found in Paulo Coelho's The Alchemist.
3,217 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Aldonza/Dulcinea
Aldonza is a strong-willed serving woman who initially views herself cynically, but is transformed through Don Quixote's vision of her as Dulcinea, a noble lady. Her journey with Don Quixote leads her to embrace his ideals and take up his mission.
Sancho/Manservant
The Manservant assists Cervantes in orchestrating the play within the prison, echoing Sancho's supportive role to Don Quixote as a loyal yet simple companion. Sancho adds humor and reality to Quixote's adventures, often finding himself charmed by the knight's quests.
The Duke/Dr. Carrasco
The Duke, a skeptical prisoner, plays the role of Dr. Carrasco, a practical, science-minded antagonist who seeks to cure Don Quixote of his delusions. He embodies a critical realist viewpoint, resistant to idealism.
The Governor/The Innkeeper
The Governor is a prisoner with authority who fairly considers Cervantes's defense; he plays the Innkeeper in the inner play. As the Innkeeper, he humorously indulges Don Quixote’s whims while maintaining a genial control over his establishment.
The Padre
The Padre is a priest caught between admiration and pity for Don Quixote, seeking a balance between idealism and realism. He contributes a nuanced perspective on dreams and reality, reflecting conflicts within the household of Don Quixote.
Pedro and the Muleteers
Pedro leads a group of muleteers who provide the ensemble of rough men occupying the inn, focused largely on base desires. They contrast Don Quixote's idealism with their crude demeanor and actions.
82
Play • Fiction
Spain • 16th century
1965
Adult
14+ years
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