The Grass is Greener (play)


The Grass is Greener is a 1956 two act comedy written by Hugh Williams and Margaret Williams. It opened at St. Martin's Theatre in the West End of London, on 2 December. Joan Greenwood starred as Hattie, Countess of Rhyall, with Williams playing Victor, Earl of Rhyall, Edward Underdown playing Charles, an American tourist and Celia Johnson playing Hilary. Jack Minster directed.

Plot

The Earl and Countess of Rhyall, needing revenue, open their residence Hampshire manor to tourists. A visiting American falls in love with Earl's wife; the Earl in turn, attempts to use an old flame to make his wife jealous.

Critical reception

J. C. Trewin includes Grass is Greener as one of the top four plays of 1958–59. He describes Grass is Greener as the best of William's three comedies, noting its "glancing wit" and "well bred ease." Trewin describes "neatly constructed," with much of the comedy coming from "apparent irrelevance."

Film

Williams wrote the screenplay for the 1960 film adaptation The Grass is Greener, with Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr playing the lead roles.