Atlanta’s beloved French-speaking theatre, Théâtre du Rêve (Theatre of the Dream), is currently delighting audiences through Feb. 25 with Molière’s brilliant, bawdy satire “Le Malade Imaginaire.”
The show is directed by founding artistic director Carolyn Cook in her final production at Théâtre du Rêve.
Fret not if you aren’t fluent in French; there are supertitles on the wall above the actors’ heads.
In “Le Malade,” master Atlanta actor Chris Kayser plays Argan, a wealthy Parisian who has been seduced, so to speak, by a prestigious quack doctor. To save money (and guarantee continual medical attention), Argan plans to marry his daughter Angélique (Karine Dieuvil) to the doctor’s nephew.
However, she is already in love with another young man. Fortunately, Argan’s wily household servant Toinette (Eliana Marianes) is determined to straighten things out—but can she do it in time?
Other excellent cast members include Gaela Garaud Bellamy, Paris Benjamin, Sarah Bess Hester, and Wade Tilton.
Ms. Cook says in the program, “It always blows my mind that a play written 350 years ago can feel modern, relevant, and remarkably hilarious.” As an example, this farcical satire makes ample use of flatulence, particularly when dealing with Argan’s sitting down, rising, or just moving about. Mr. Kayser’s deadpan humor is flawless.
The theatre program tells us that in her final production, Ms. Cook plunges into puppetry inspired by the Center for Puppetry Arts. She deftly combines live action and puppets to bring the story to life. Puppeteers Sarah Beth Hester and Wade Tilton join her. By the way, Jennifer Schottstaedt’s costumes are glorious.
“Le Malade Imaginaire” is staged at the 7 Stages Black Box Theatre. Every seat is a good one; I love audience intimacy. Whenever it can be achieved, it adds so much.
I’ve waited as long as I can to give you good and bad news: Word has spread about “Le Malade” and it is likely the show will be sold out this weekend. If you love theatre, you’ll rejoice; if you miss the show—plan in advance next time. For more information about the theatre go to theatredureve.org.
We have the incomparable Ms. Cook (and her associates) to thank for 90 minutes of brilliant, rollicking fun. Every now and then you’ll hear someone refer to Atlanta as an “international city.” Some debate that, but the “Theatre of the Dream” will make you a believer.