Tartuffe by Moliere. Centrepiece Theatre directed by Jordan Best at The Street Theatre Studio, Wednesdays to Saturdays until May 6, 7.30pm. Matinees Sunday April 30 and Saturday May 6 at 2pm. Bookings: 6247 1223.
It really is satisfying to see a production done with assurance and wit. Jordan Best and her cast understand the style needed for Moliere's form of comedy and have the confidence to play with a genuine sense of fun. There is a special visual joke, which may be interpreted to be a reference to a certain recent political cartoon, during the curtain call which is worth waiting for.
The use of religious humbug for personal gain and power was as common in the 17th Century as it is today, so this play was banned from public performance for 5 years after it was written in 1664. Played with a light touch, as Centrepiece have done, it is the comedy which gives immediate enjoyment while the criticism of dastardly human behaviour pokes its satirical head up between the lines to add to the fun. I suspect, though, there are still countries where a ban would be in the offing.
Performances are very good throughout, with minor roles showing as much character as major roles. A tricky part to play is Dorine, the servant who survives in this household ruled by the delusional Orgon not by being submissive but by challenging and manipulating her employers. Erin Pugh played with the art of commedia very effectively, as Moliere intended. Matt Marshall, as "humble" but lecherous Tartuffe, and Veronica Merton, as Elmire (Orgon's wife who exposes Tartuffe's sexual predations) made an excellent oppositional pair, while Liz Bradley (Mme Pernelle - Orgon's peremptory mother) provided the strong framework in the first and last scenes which the play needs.
Particularly amusing was Carly Jacobs' very petulant Marianne, Orgon's daughter, paired well with the sincere if slightly goofy Valere (Jim Adamik), especially in their "domestic", rejecting each other when they actually are in love. Calm down, says Dorine - you can have this argument after you're married.
This is a good beginning to the second year of Centrepiece. May there be many more.
© Frank McKone, Canberra
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