Oh, Men! Oh, Women!

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Oh, Men%21 Oh, Women%21 - 1957 - poster

Oh, Men! Oh, Women! is a play written by Edward Chodorov, which premiered on Broadway in 1953. The play is a comedic exploration of love, relationships, and the complexities of human behavior, making it a notable work in the American theatre landscape of the 1950s. It delves into the lives of its characters with wit and insight, offering audiences both laughter and moments of introspection.

Plot

The story revolves around Dr. Alan Coles, a psychiatrist, who is engaged to be married to Mildred Turner. As the wedding approaches, Dr. Coles finds himself entangled in the romantic and psychological complexities of not only his own relationship but also those of his patients. The plot thickens when one of Dr. Coles' patients, Arthur Turner, turns out to be Mildred's ex-husband, leading to a series of comedic and introspective encounters that explore themes of love, jealousy, and the human psyche.

Characters

• Dr. Alan Coles - The protagonist, a psychiatrist engaged to Mildred Turner.
• Mildred Turner - Dr. Coles' fiancée, who has a complicated past with her ex-husband, Arthur.
• Arthur Turner - Mildred's ex-husband and one of Dr. Coles' patients, whose involvement adds complexity to the story.
• Other characters include various patients of Dr. Coles, each bringing their own unique challenges and insights into the human condition.

Production

The original Broadway production of Oh, Men! Oh, Women! opened in 1953, showcasing the talents of a notable cast and creative team. The play received positive reviews for its humorous yet thoughtful examination of relationships and the psychological underpinnings of love and attraction. Over the years, it has been revived in various productions, reflecting its enduring appeal.

Adaptations

In 1957, Oh, Men! Oh, Women! was adapted into a film directed by Nunnally Johnson, featuring a cast that included David Niven, Ginger Rogers, and Tony Randall. The film adaptation introduced the play to a wider audience, further cementing its place in American cultural history.

Legacy

Oh, Men! Oh, Women! is remembered for its witty dialogue, engaging plot, and insightful commentary on the complexities of human relationships. It remains a significant work in the canon of American theatre, studied and enjoyed by audiences and scholars alike for its contributions to the genre of comedy and its exploration of psychological themes.