The flamboyant Irish man Oscar Wilde is one the most well renowned playwrights of his generation. His sexuality and time in “Reading Gaol” are well documented, along with many of popular plays being performed across the UK every year.

However, Wilde was also married with two children. His estranged wife, Constance Mary Lloyd, is the subject in the latest play written and performed by Lexi Wolfe.

A Forgotten Woman:Mrs Oscar Wilde starts from before Constance meets Oscar carrying on through to the end when she moves to Europe and changes her name due to Oscars tarnished reputation with male lovers and his spell in prison.

Lexi has bought Constance to life through warmth and admiration. The feminist, writer, mother, and activist speaks openly to her brother Otho through letters in this production. We never hear the voice of her brother. Although, this isn’t important, as the audience is transfixed by Constance, her openness and honesty about her husbands behaviour, and his lack of compassion towards her and the children. All connect with the documented history from the time about how Oscar treated his wife.

After a conversation with Slade Wolfe, Lexi, as ever meticulously researched for this production. Using actual accounts written by Constance throughout the play and woven into the dialogue of her letters created by Lexi for this play.

It’s a first-class performance and play. Highlighting the highs and lows of their marriage and the strength of Constance’s character throughout the darker times of their marriage and beyond. A fitting tribute to one of the overlooked famous ladies tucked within the history books and records who deserves to be given a voice.

For more information about Mrs Oscar Wilde and other productions by Slade Wolfe, please use the link below.

Five Stars.

https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/a-forgotten-woman-mrs-oscar-wilde