A Classic Farce Revived

Thornton Wilder’s play, The Matchmaker, is a testament to the enduring appeal of farcical theater. Originally a "free adaptation" of Johann Nestroy’s Einen Jux will er sich Machen, which itself drew from John Oxenham’s 1835 comedy A Day Well Spent, Wilder's work embraces traditional comedic conventions such as mistaken identities, hidden characters, and a series of convoluted romantic entanglements. The play’s transformation into the celebrated Broadway musical Hello, Dolly! further solidified its legacy, captivating audiences with its joyous spirit and vibrant characters.

Historical Inspirations and Adaptations

Wilder was not shy about acknowledging the roots of his play. One of the primary inspirations for The Matchmaker was Molière’s L’avare, from which Wilder borrowed the character of Dolly Levi among other elements. The narrative’s journey from Nestroy’s mid-19th-century Viennese comedy to Wilder’s initial failed attempt as The Merchant of Yonkers in 1938, and finally evolving into the resounding success of The Matchmaker and its musical adaptation, reflects a rich history of reimagining and cultural exchange. Each iteration retained the core comedic structure while adding contemporary flavors, ensuring the story’s relevance across generations.

The Plot of The Matchmaker

At the heart of The Matchmaker is Horace Vandergelder, a curmudgeonly and thrifty store owner intent on finding a wife suitable for himself while opposing his niece’s desire to marry a destitute artist. Enter Dolly Levi, the eponymous matchmaker, who secretly harbors her own romantic designs on Vandergelder. Under the pretense of aiding him in his marital quest, she orchestrates a series of events intended to secure her own happiness and assist the young lovers in gaining Vandergelder’s reluctant blessing.

The subplot focuses on Vandergelder’s weary clerk, who, yearning for adventure, finds himself inadvertently swept into the romantic escapades. His encounter with a woman who turns out to be Vandergelder’s intended bride further thickens the plot, weaving a tapestry of comedic misunderstandings and eventual enlightenment. The narrative concludes with a celebratory resolution, as each character finds contentment and a new perspective, underscoring the timeless appeal of farce.

Enduring Appeal

The enduring success of The Matchmaker lies in its keen balance of humor and heart. Wilder’s play, while firmly rooted in classic farcical traditions, resonates because of its universal exploration of love, ambition, and human folly. The characters, though exaggerated for comedic effect, reflect genuine emotions and desires, allowing audiences to connect with their dilemmas and triumphs.

In adapting The Matchmaker into the musical Hello, Dolly!, the essence of Wilder’s work was preserved while adding new layers of musical and visual splendor. The story’s transformation into a musical expanded its reach, attracting diverse audiences and cementing its place in the annals of theatrical history. Both the play and its musical counterpart continue to be celebrated for their wit, charm, and enduring insight into the complexities of human relationships.

Legacy of The Matchmaker

Thornton Wilder's The Matchmaker succeeds in more than just entertaining; it offers a glimpse into the transformative power of performance art. The play’s adaptability and resilience demonstrate how old tales can be refreshed and invigorated for new eras. Its elements of disguise, mistaken identities, and serendipitous romance speak to a universal audience, ensuring its place as a beloved staple of theater.

The narrative’s journey from a modest 28-performance Broadway run in its early days to the expansive and long-running success of Hello, Dolly! testifies to its ability to evolve and remain pertinent. The cyclical nature of its adaptations—from stage to musical and back again—invites each new generation to rediscover its charms. As both a play and a musical, The Matchmaker stands as a vibrant example of how theater can delight and inspire, weaving humor with timeless truths.