Within the narrative of the play, Marion French aligns herself with Britain’s Conservative Party, a faction under the resolute leadership of Margaret Thatcher during the 1980s. Known far and wide as the 'Iron Lady,' Thatcher’s tenure as Prime Minister was marked by strength and controversy alike. Delve into the intricate tapestry of Thatcher’s government from 1979 to 1990. What milestones did she achieve in her role? What core principles drove the Conservative Party? How did these views diverge from those held by Britain’s other prominent political faction, the Labour Party?

Religious Imagery and Symbolism

The Secret Rapture overflows with religious symbolism. Isobel, one of the central characters, often echoes the demeanor of a saintly figure. Late in the performance, Irwin suggests she has taken "some sort of vow," akin to the commitments made by nuns or monks. Even the play’s title hints at deeper meanings, as noted by the playwright, signifying death as "that moment at which a nun expects to be united with Christ." Explore the life of a renowned saint—perhaps an index of famous saints from the internet or library may assist you. How do the life and trials of Isobel parallel those of the saint you choose? In what ways do they differ? Ponder aspects such as altruism, forbearance, love for humanity, and self-sacrifice.

Seamless Transitions on Stage

A remarkable feature of The Secret Rapture is its seamless transitions between scenes, achieved without the interruption of blackouts or drawn curtains. This demands innovative set design and stagecraft. Choose a particular scene transition, such as the shift from scene i, Robert’s bedroom, to scene ii, the back lawn of his house; or from scene vi, Tom’s office, to scene vii, Katherine’s apartment. How would you envision setting the stage and transforming the scenery before the audience's eyes? Consider drawing blueprints or crafting three-dimensional models with materials like cardboard and paper to bring your ideas to life.

The Struggles of Katherine Glass

Central to the play is Katherine Glass, a character grappling with alcoholism. Her recurring claims of sobriety are often undermined by her relapses. These bouts of drinking spiral into depression and lead to troubling actions, such as an aggressive episode involving a steak knife at a restaurant. Examine the latest statistics and findings on alcoholism within the United States. How widespread is this affliction? What are its root causes? What strategies have governments and medical professionals employed to mitigate the impact of alcoholism on individuals, families, and the wider community? What steps can be taken to safeguard yourself and others?

Portrayal of Women

David Hare is lauded by many critics for crafting compelling, often virtuous female protagonists in his works. In a candid exchange with American Theatre magazine, Hare himself asserted, "I’ve written about women a lot because my subject has often been goodness. The idea of men being good seems to me to be slightly silly." Reflect on the female characters depicted in The Secret Rapture. Do they embody strength? In what ways? Which among them can be considered "good," and how is this demonstrated?