HOBSON'S CHOICE

a Lancashire comedy by Harold Brighouse

directed by

CARLTON PLAYERS

1st Nov to 8th Nov 2008

Harold Brighouse's play, Hobson's Choice is set in Salford, Lancashire
during Victorian times. It recounts the story of obstinate boot-shop owner
Henry Hobson who dominates both his employees and his three daughters,
only bothering to enquire about his meals before heading to the local public
house for ale. His eldest daughter Maggie becomes tired of his oafish
behaviour and decides to rebel by seeking a husband. Much to the hilarity
and consternation of her father, aged spinster Maggie sets her sights on shy
Will Mossop, Hobson's master boot-maker. Mossop is at first stunned by the
suggestion, but eventually agrees to Maggie's authoritative persuasion, and
together they set up a rival boot shop. Maggie marries Will, then decides to
free her two sisters from their fathers tyrannical grip and allow them to take
husbands of their own choosing. Hobson's health deteriorates and his
business begins to decline without his accomplished boot-maker, Hobson is
finally compelled to agree a merger with his daughter and Will.