Aphra Behn's The Amorous Prince

An all-day practical workshop led by Paul Ainsworth

Aphra Behn was the first English woman to be paid for her writing – and she was born in Canterbury! This year the ‘Canterbury’s Aphra Behn’ project is celebrating this wonderful daughter of our city.

In July, The Canterbury Players will perform The Amorous Prince; Or The Curious Husband, one of Behn’s early plays. Why not come along to this FREE all-day workshop investigating the characters, context and narrative of this most modern play that is both funny and deeply serious. Themes explored include sexuality, coercive control, the role of women in a patriarchal society, male courage and friendship. The plot involves Prince Frederick who believes he has the right to sex with any woman he who takes his eye and Antonio, the curious husband, asking his friend to test the fidelity of his wife Clarina. The day will be lots of fun! Please wear comfortable clothing and bring refreshments.

This opportunity will be of interest to those who are considering auditioning for a part in the play later in February, but it is open to anyone interested in Aphra, the play and how good theatre is made. ALL ARE WELCOME. Please book your free place. There are twenty places available and they will be booked on a first come first served basis. If you would like the play script and more information about Aphra Behn and the production of The Amorous Prince, please email [email protected]. We would be delighted to hear from you.

The workshop is led by director, facilitator and theatre maker Paul Ainsworth. He has over ten years’ experience creating performances with professional and community artists from across the country both on local and national stages. He has specialised in work that responds to national heritage locations and historic texts through a contemporary lens.

His directing work includes Next Generation : Hamlet by Shakespeare (The Other Place, RSC, 2023), The Creek by Bernadette Russell (Cutty Sark – Maritime Museum, Arthouse and Raybell Charters, 2022), Troilus and Cressida by Shakespeare (The Marlowe Studio, 2020), Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad adapted by Paul Ainsworth (The Marlowe Kit, 2019), The Emperor of the Moon by Aphra Behn (The Marlowe Kit, 2018), The Monstrum by Kelly Smith (Dorfman Theatre 2017, part of NT Connections).