Lady of Lyons
Author: first_name: Edward
last_name: Bulwer-Lytton
Language: English
Year: 1838

Although the author of this play is now famous for writing the most cliché opening line in literature – “It was a dark and stormy night…” (from his 1830 novel, "Paul Clifford" ), this melodrama by Sir Edward Bulwer-Lytton was at one time one of the most popular dramas of its day.  This story of romance and deception thrilled Victorian audiences.  In the 1840’s, the show served as a starring vehicle for the great William Macready and the incomparable Helene Faucit.  The plot of “Lady of Lyons’” c