The Cactus Flower (play)

"The Cactus Flower" is a comedic play by Abe Burrows about a dentist, Julian Winston, who tries to cover up his affair with a young patient by telling his fiancée the woman is already married. He persuades a nurse, Toni, to pretend to be his wife to protect his reputation. However, complications arise when Toni begins to develop genuine feelings for him, and other misunderstandings lead to humorous situations. The play explores themes of deception, love, and social expectations, ultimately highlighting how honesty and self-awareness can resolve complex personal dilemmas.