Bosie
A one-person play focusing on the self-imposed exile of Oscar Wilde’s beau, Bosie (Lord Alfred Bruce Douglas).
Set in a Parisian salon in May 1895, Bosie contemplates his own story and seeks to establish his own narrative against the public downfall of his lover. Taking place over two dates (as Wilde is released on bail and then on his day of sentencing), Bosie tells the story behind the story.
Ruminating on his sexuality and prowess, his hunger for position and status, Bosie explores his journey in homosexuality and relationships. Shocking, abrasive and, at times, downright uncouth the devilish details of his dalliances and affairs come to the fore – but at what point will he accept some responsibility for his current situation?
A beautiful boy turned man, with an attitude of privilege and expectation that supersedes reason, Lord Alfred Douglas’ petulance is on full show. But how did he come to be here? He battles and reflects with how his actions led to Oscar Wilde’s downfall and disgrace, and how he, Bosie—a gentleman of Victorian high society—is now trapped, degraded and alone. Passionate and direct, sumptuous and scandalous, Bosie is ready to spill the Victorian tea… well, his own version of it at least.
Written and performed by Rik Barnett, the first staged iteration took place at the Hope Mill Theatre in 2017 as part of their Powerhouse Plays venture to great acclaim, and has since undergone some significant development to the production you will see here. Directed by Tuirenn Hurstfield and produced by Northern Rep Theatre.
Bosie strips back from the flowers of the Victorian setting and focuses on the character and just how deliciously deviant he is.
Lord Alfred Bruce Douglas, famously known as “Bosie” was a wild child of British aristocracy, notorious for his scandalous love affair with Oscar Wilde. Bosie’s life was a rollercoaster of forbidden love, courtroom drama, and poetic ambition. This rebel defied his father, society, and even the law, all in the name of love and verse. From penning passionate sonnets to sparking scandalous trials, Bosie lived on the edge – and loved every second of it.
The playtext also includes an accompanying essay ‘Informing an Audience’ by Rik Barnett exploring his research in writing the play including locations mentioned, Bosie’s family background, and wider historical context.
Rik Barnett is a versatile British actor and writer, firmly rooted in the north west of England yet reaching audiences regionally, nationally, and internationally. With training from renowned institutions like the Lee Strasberg Theater Institute and UCLA, Rik has honed a unique blend of methodologies. After winning Best Supporting Actor at the 2010 IIFF, he pivoted into developing his writing, most recently garnering the Best LGBT+ Production at the 2023 GMFF. His full-length and fringe plays are frequently staged, showcasing his knack for storytelling. Rik’s theatre performances, screen acting, voice acting, and writing have taken him across the globe, from the USA to New Zealand, Thailand, and various European countries.
£10.99
In stock
Available from 4 February 2025
