Arcadia - Oh Victorians

Part of the challenge of this month's book club selection is imagining how the play all comes together. Tom Stoppard's Arcadia premiered in London in 1993 consisting of a single set that spans the Victorian era to current time. Thomasina and Hannah, the leading ladies of the story, express the same passion, determination, and frustration that transcends time. They may wear different clothes and utilize different tools for research, but they encounter similar obstacles of the heart.

Can you think of any old family tales or secrets you would like to explore? Would you rather live in a different time period?

When I read books from a different time period, I often imagine myself submerged in the lifestyle described. Recently on a trip to Ellis Island in New York, I viewed artifacts and clothing from early Twentieth century immigrants to the United States. My cousin walked up to a display and remarked, "I can't imagine girls having to where that" pointing to a fully dressed mannequin. "I would love to wear that every day" I remarked. He laughed. I have never been a t-shirt and jeans kind of gal. In fact, I do not own any pants, and I have a parasol for sunny days. As nice as it is to imagine one day walking the streets lined with everyone in their Sunday best, I am thankful that getting dressed in the morning is not a two person operation with corset, bloomers, stockings, shoes with tens of buttons requiring special utensils.... I'll keep my simple A-line dress and shoes requiring a simple zip or wiggle.

For a peek into the play, click here to you tube to view snippets of the production.


Thanks and keep reading,

Nicole Eggert
Operations Student Assistant

The OSU Urban Arts Space Book Club
Where? The OSU Urban Arts Space on 50 W Town Street
When? The last Wednesday of every month from Noon-1pm