Disraeli | |
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Written by | Louis N. Parker |
Directed by | Hugh Ford |
Date premiered | 18 September 1911 |
Place premiered | Wallack's Theatre, New York City |
Original language | English |
Subject | Fictional depiction of Benjamin Disraeli |
Genre | Comedy |
Setting | Glastonbury Towers, Hughenden Manor, 10 Downing Street |
Disraeli is a play by the British writer Louis N. Parker. The comedy with dramatic overtones has four acts and four settings, with a large cast, and moderate pacing. It is a fictional depiction of Benjamin Disraeli's life around 1875, when he arranged the purchase of the Suez Canal. It also contains dual love stories: Disraeli and his wife, and a young couple.
The play was first produced by Liebler & Company, staged by Hugh Ford, with sets by Gates & Morange. It opened January 1911 in Montreal, was engaged in Chicago from February through April 1911, and had its Broadway première in September 1911. Its first season on Broadway ran through May 1912.
The play was a popular success for Arliss, and developed a loyal following. It became Arliss' signature role and he was strongly identified with it in popular culture. For Liebler & Company it represented a financial success, earning over $500,000.