A Crooked French Affair

by Kim E. Ruyle

[Full-Length]
Perry, a wannabe playwright/director has written his first play, A Crooked French Affair, ostensibly a dramatic romance set in the royal court of Louis the 15th. When he pitches his play to the dysfunctional Board of Directors of the Pity Falls Community Playhouse, it throws them into a conniption fit. Against all odds, Perry’s play is selected, and now the real work begins with the cast of...

[Full-Length]
Perry, a wannabe playwright/director has written his first play, A Crooked French Affair, ostensibly a dramatic romance set in the royal court of Louis the 15th. When he pitches his play to the dysfunctional Board of Directors of the Pity Falls Community Playhouse, it throws them into a conniption fit. Against all odds, Perry’s play is selected, and now the real work begins with the cast of amateur, inept actors, who work on a set and in costumes designed by recruits from the local junior high school. Complicating everything is an undercurrent due to the affair between Perry’s wife and the husband of Avis, a board member who is recruited to play a part in Perry’s play. On opening night, the production loses its way yet creates a stunning audience reaction and a fortuitous discovery for Perry.

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A Crooked French Affair

Recommended by

  • Tom Erb: A Crooked French Affair by Kim E. Ruyle
    “

    "Crooked French Affair" is a theatrical gem. The writing is sharp and engaging, the characters are vividly crafted, and the dialogue sparkles with wit. Each scene unfolds with precision, painting a colorful tapestry of 18th-century France. It's a delightful blend of history and humor that captivates from start to finish. It is a true testament to Ruyle's talent as a playwright.

    "Crooked French Affair" is a theatrical gem. The writing is sharp and engaging, the characters are vividly crafted, and the dialogue sparkles with wit. Each scene unfolds with precision, painting a colorful tapestry of 18th-century France. It's a delightful blend of history and humor that captivates from start to finish. It is a true testament to Ruyle's talent as a playwright.

    ”
  • Brenton Kniess: A Crooked French Affair by Kim E. Ruyle
    “

    Ruyle crafts a comedic gem that is so clever and unique that it will make an unforgettable theatrical experience. Great characters, even stronger dialogue, and a love letter to the theatre, Ruyle’s play has real heart and charisma. Excellent work!

    Ruyle crafts a comedic gem that is so clever and unique that it will make an unforgettable theatrical experience. Great characters, even stronger dialogue, and a love letter to the theatre, Ruyle’s play has real heart and charisma. Excellent work!

    ”
  • Morey Norkin: A Crooked French Affair by Kim E. Ruyle
    “

    If you love theater, and you wouldn’t be here if you didn’t, you will absolutely love A CROOKED FRENCH AFFAIR! From the recognizable characters of the community theater board of directors, to the disastrous call for scripts, to the crazy dress rehearsal, there’s so much familiarity yet in a refreshingly new and hilarious story. And at its core, it is a love story. Love of theater and the people who/whom make it!

    If you love theater, and you wouldn’t be here if you didn’t, you will absolutely love A CROOKED FRENCH AFFAIR! From the recognizable characters of the community theater board of directors, to the disastrous call for scripts, to the crazy dress rehearsal, there’s so much familiarity yet in a refreshingly new and hilarious story. And at its core, it is a love story. Love of theater and the people who/whom make it!

    ”
View all 6 recommendations

Development History

  • Reading, Chicago Dramatists, 2022

Production History

  • Community Theater, Fond du Lac Community Theatre - Part of World Premiere Wisconsin, 2023