By Molière
Translated by Ranjit Bolt
Hilarity ensues when a ludicrously suggestible patron falls for a pious con-man in this famous farce about religious hypocrisy.
Department of Theatre & Drama
Arthur Miller Theatre
October 8 - 11 and 15 0 18, 2009
Overview
The Story: Under the religious cloak of piety, Tartuffe befriends Orgon, a rich man who is swept away by Tartuffe’s charisma and his message of the uncomplicated holy life. While his family and
friends easily recognize Tartuffe as a con man, the more they protest, the more Orgon stubbornly embraces the charlatan — giving him money, the deed to the house, and even his daughter’s hand in marriage. Exasperated by Orgon’s folly and lack of discernment, his family tries various schemes to expose Tartuffe’s hypocrisy. Will they succeed in ridding the house of the scoundrel or will Tartuffe’s masquerade prevail?
Artistic Significance: English playwright Ranjit Bolt is one of the foremost contemporary translators of Molière’s work, having rendered eight of the French playwright’s works to wide acclaim. His translation of Tartuffe retains Molière’s spirit and rhyming couplets while injecting an immediacy that makes this 346 year-old satire amazingly relevant. The Ashland Daily Times called this version for the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, “sparkling and sprightly.” Priscilla Lindsay, who directed the Department’s enchanting You Never Can Tell in March 2008, returns to direct this delightful romp. Rich with biting wit and spiraling absurdity, Tartuffe pokes outrageous fun at religious hypocrisy and human foibles.
Cast
Mme. Pernelle Erin Cousins
Flipote/Ensemble Scott Sitman
Elmire Jaime Lyn Beatty
Dorine Bonnie Gruesen
Damis Tom Wolfson
Mariane Arielle Goldman
Cleante Corey Dorris
Orgon Joey Richter
Valere Jordan Rochelson
Tartuffe Mckean Scheu
Laurent/Ensemble Jesse Peri
M. Loyal Nicholas J. Strauss-Matathia
Officer of the Court John Samela
Ensemble Reed Campbell
Listen to music from the show on i-Tunes
