TARTUFFE to Play State Theatre Centre's Studio Underground in July

A PLAY by one of France's most celebrated playwrights is coming to the State Theatre Centre's Studio Underground in July.

Performed by students from The Actors' Hub, Tartuffe is a classic French satire and farce by Moliére first performed in 1664 and regarded as one of his most famous theatrical comedies.

Tartuffe is the name of the central character who is a wolf in sheep's clothing - he scams the family that has taken him in as their spiritual adviser and causes drama, confusion and comedy.

Gerard Depardieu directed and starred in the title role of a 1984 French film version while the 2007 film Moliére contains many direct and indirect references to Tartuffe.

Tartuffe marks the first time The Actors' Hub students have performed at the State Theatre Centre with director Vivienne Garrett describing the play as relevant to today as it was more 350 years ago.

"The characters are larger than life but still totally identifiable," she said. "It's a brilliant piece of theatre rarely seen these days and a gift for actors.

"But it's very demanding - the play requires vocal, acting and movement skills of the highest order.

"It will be great to see The Actors' Hub actors bring this hilarious and vibrant comedy to life."

Garrett is a NIDA graduate who has worked with major Australian theatre companies and luminaries such as John Cleese, Mel Gibson, Geoffrey Rush and John Bell.

Her career spans decades in theatre, film and television and includes appearances in Number 96, Matlock Police, Homicide, Mother and Son, Haydaze, Ship to Shore and Minty.

Over the years, Garrett has received various awards and nominations for her performances and also has numerous directing credits.

She works as a vocal and acting coach and has taught at The Actors' Hub, NIDA, WA Academy of Performing Arts, The Australian Film and Television Academy and Notre Dame and Edith Cowan Universities.

"Directing any play is a challenge," Garrett said. "Moliére's work is revered throughout the world and the play is challenging on every level.

"People will love the language, situation comedy, flair and style and, of course, the dexterity of the actors."

Tartuffe plays at 7.30pm July 23, 24 and 25. Tickets are $25, $20 concession - book on 6143 3568 or at www.actorshub.net under "what's on".

The Studio Underground is at the State Theatre Centre, 174-176 William Street, Perth (on the Northbridge side of the Horseshoe Bridge).

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