Rene Auberjonois possesses the kind of talent America seems no longer interested in cultivating: the actor capable of moving effortlessly between screen and stage, adjusting his methods, technique and level of dramatic intelligence accordingly. In Moliere's The Imaginary Invalid, the actor performs as an authentic, applying rather than imitating the traditions and techniques of the stage. He is a joy to watch. Accolades for Auberjonois aside, there is no escaping that Invalid is a 17th century comedy with all the peculiarities that such origins entail. So despite his skill and flair and the translator's occasional license with the one-liners, this is not going to be everyone's cup of tea. There are ensemble musical numbers that director Keith Baxter has been unable to make palatable, there is some over-bearing slapstick that only the genetically predisposed could love, and the less than original (at least nowadays) plot of the gruff old dad thwarting his daughter's quest for true love with a grotesquely unsuitable choice of husband. There is also extensive railing on the medical profession. And yet for all that, there is fun and pleasure to be had with this well-paced and conceived production and a unique opportunity to be in on a 17th century joke. Extended to August 2. At the Lansburgh Theatre, 450 Seventh St. NW. Tickets are $39.50 to $79.75. Call 202-547-1122 or visit www.shakespearetheatre.org.
Read Kate Wingfield's full review here.
The Imaginary Invalid at The Shakespeare Theatre Co.
Rene Auberjonois possesses the kind of talent America seems no longer interested in cultivating: the actor capable of moving effortlessly between screen and stage, adjusting his methods, technique and level of dramatic intelligence accordingly. In Moliere's The Imaginary Invalid, the actor performs as an authentic, applying rather than imitating the traditions and techniques of the stage. He is a joy to watch. Accolades for Auberjonois aside, there is no escaping that Invalid is a 17th century comedy with all the peculiarities that such origins entail. So despite his skill and flair and the translator's occasional license with the one-liners, this is not going to be everyone's cup of tea. There are ensemble musical numbers that director Keith Baxter has been unable to make palatable, there is some over-bearing slapstick that only the genetically predisposed could love, and the less than original (at least nowadays) plot of the gruff old dad thwarting his daughter's quest for true love with a grotesquely unsuitable choice of husband. There is also extensive railing on the medical profession. And yet for all that, there is fun and pleasure to be had with this well-paced and conceived production and a unique opportunity to be in on a 17th century joke. Extended to August 2. At the Lansburgh Theatre, 450 Seventh St. NW. Tickets are $39.50 to $79.75. Call 202-547-1122 or visit www.shakespearetheatre.org.
Read Kate Wingfield's full review here.
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