Misadventures of the Musketeers
The Dumas classic “The Three Musketeers,” set in 17th century France, tells of the adventures of three heroic musketeers who are close comrades. This, sadly, is not a dramatization of that beloved story. Instead it’s a prequel…of sorts. Athos, Porthos, and Aramis are in training to become musketeers, and they are bumbling rivals, casting humorously snide remarks to each other and practicing outlandish one-upmanship. When the queen is abducted under their watch, they each try to find a way to save her and save the throne. Their attempts land them in a laughing contest, singing opera on a stage, surviving a sinking ship in the middle of the sea, becoming paralyzed from poisonous lipstick, and even dueling with a broomstick. And who can help them? Could it be Kat, a mysterious woman who seems to have a knack for finding jewelry; the lovely Michelle, who works at an orphanage; a nameless and silent but street-wise orphan boy; or Quasi Mona, a love-starved servant? Filled with intrigue, action, hilarity, and havoc, this original tale imagines the three recruits transforming – amazingly – into successful musketeers and lifelong friends. Many extras add to the comedy. About 90 minutes.
Productions
Behind The Scenes
WADE BRADFORD TALKS ABOUT THE MISADVENTURES OF THE MUSKETEERS:
Q: What inspired you to write this play?
A: I've always loved the cinematic adaptations of Dumas' adventure novels. So when the Canyon Theatre Guild said they wanted me to write and direct something loosely based on a classic, The Three Musketeers popped into my mind.
Q: What is your favorite part of this play? Why?
A: My favorite part of the play, hands down, is when Porthos announces that this is the greatest day of his life (whilst in the middle of an epic battle between musketeers, ninjas, and pirates).
Q: Where did the characters come from? Are they based on people you know?
A: At first, I was thinking of doing a faithful adaptation -- but that never seems to work out for me... I'm too weird. And the original "Three Musketeers" has always been about four main characters, not three. It made me wonder what were Athos, Aramis, and Porthos like before they met one another. How did they become friends?
Q: What did you try to achieve with this play?
A: The spirit of adventure and comedy combined.
Q: Anything else you’d like to add?
A: Yes, however you decide to create the stage combat (whether it is farcical or believable) be slow, steady, and safe during rehearsals and performances!