SYNOPSIS
Ferdinand, King of Navarre (Philip Quast), and his companions Berowne, Longaville and Dumaine, decide to give up society - and especially the company of women - for three years and devote themselves to their books. They have forgotten, however, that the Princess of France and her ladies are expected at any moment on a formal visit. When the women arrive, each of the students promptly falls in love with one of them and, although each tries to keep this secret from his friends, they are soon found out. Reconciled to the idea of being in love, the students now plan to court their ladies in disguise, but their plan is discovered and the ladies turn the tables on them. Wearing masks, they trick the students into declaring love to the wrong woman.
Don Armando, a visiting Spaniard, has fallen in love with Jaquenetta, a local girl, and proceeds to court her with a little help from friends. Meanwhile, some of the locals are planning to stage a pageant to entertain the students and their guests.

(Source: RSC Programme, typed by Karla J.)

(Thanks to Carol for the useful clarifications about the production's run)