Candide: A Play in Five Acts. Voltaire

Voltaire's classic novel CANDIDE has been adapted many times through many different forms of media, but this 20th-century dramatic version is one of the best. Voltaire's story endures because the character of Candide is capable of being moved to any time or place, and still be understood–and enjoyed–by a brand new audience. In an irrational world where only diehard optimists like Dr. Pangloss can believe that everything is for the best, Voltaire's dissection of human follies rings true, even today. In the end, his best advice to the individual trying to cope with the joys and sorrows of everyday life is just to…"Cultivate your garden!"