Inheritance well spent

In the same league as An Ideal Husband by Oscar Wilde and Pygmalion by George Bernard Shaw, Diana of Dobson's – written in 1908 by actress, writer and feminist activist Cicely Hamilton – is full of humor and social commentary. Now playing at Studio 58, it is a chance for Bulletin readers to see a well-acted play with beautiful costumes and an eye-catching set.

The story centres around Diana Massingberd, a shop assistant at Dobson's drapery firm. When she receives a small inheritance, she spends it on fancy clothes and travel - looking for a month-long reprieve from her life of poverty and 14-hour work days. While in the Swiss Alps, she is mistaken for an heiress and receives two marriage proposals.

Among the issues Diana of Dobson's raises are the exploitation of Britain's working class, the arrogance (and uselessness) of its upper class and the economic options (including marriage) for women at the time. The witty banter between Hamilton's characters requires good timing and an ease with the language of the day, both of which the actors in the Studio 58 production master. With Jewish community member Jane Heyman – an award-winning director who has taught acting at Studio 58 since 1985 and been associate director since 1992 – at the helm, it shouldn't be surprising that this show is so well crafted.

Diana of Dobson's runs until Feb. 13. Call 604-257-0366 or visit www.festivalboxoffice.com. Studio 58 is located in the Main Building of Langara College.