Caryl Churchill

Top Girls Caryl Churchill First edition

Serious Comedy / Castin: 7f. with doubling / Ints.

Marlene has been promoted to managing director of a London employment agency and is celebrating. The symbolic luncheon is attended by women in legend or history who offer perspectives on maternity and ambition. In a time warp, these ladies are also her co workers, clients and relatives. Marlene, like her famous guests, has had to pay a price to ascend from proletarian roots to the executive suite: she has become, figuratively speaking, a male oppressor and even coaches female clients on adopting odious male traits. Marlene has also abandoned her illegitimate and dull witted daughter. Her emotional and sexual life has become as barren as Lady Macbeth's.

"A blistering yet sympathetic look at women who achieve success by adopting the worse traits of self made men.... Truly original." N. Y. Times.

"Very funny and provocative.... A mind lifting experience." N. Y. Post.