There are many different stage plays on love or romance.
There have been many plays that touch on the theme of love or romance since the first play was performed. There are few plays that focus solely on love or romance, however, because most plays those elements to provide a broader narrative about life and society.
Romeo and Juliet
Arguably the most famous play on the subject, Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet is a play about forbidden love. After a whirlwind romance, young lovers Romeo and Juliet marry against the wishes of their families, who are sworn enemies. The main conflict stems from Juliet's betrothal to another man, Paris. In order to stop Juliet's marriage to Paris, the couple goes to extreme lengths, but as with most of Shakespeare's tragedies, it all ends in disaster.
The Importance of Being Earnest
The Importance of Being Earnest is a comedy by Oscar Wilde. The play is the story of a man whose real name is Jack, but is known as Ernest in the city. He falls in love with Gwendolen, the cousin of his friend Algernon, who says she knew she could only fall in love with a man named Ernest. In turn, Algernon falls in love with Jack's ward, Cecily, who happens to think his name is Ernest, too. Hilarity ensues.
Barefoot in the Park
Barefoot in the Park is a play by Neil Simon. It enjoyed one of the longest runs a non-musical play has had on Broadway. It is a story about the hardships of love, as experienced by a newly-wed couple. Corie believes that the love she and her new husband, Paul, share is all they need. Paul, on the other hand, is worried about their small apartment and lack of material possessions. The play explores how the couple attempts to work out their differences.
Cat on a Hot Tin Roof
Tennessee Williams' Cat on a Hot Tin Roof is a play that explores the darker side of love. Maggie loves Brick, but Brick cannot love her back. He used to love the world, and all that is in it, but life let him down and now he only loves to drink, and says he drinks until the click comes that makes everything feel okay. Big Daddy tries to show love toward his son Brick, but finds it difficult to do so.
