After A Slow Start, Tartuffe Delivers Big Laughs

Laughter can be heard throughout the Victory Gardens as the Remy Bumppo Theatre Company presents Tartuffe in the upstairs main stage. This is the American premiere of Ranjt Bolt's 2002 modern adaptation of Molière's irreverent comedy from London's National Theatre.

The production is delivered in eight-syllable rhyming couplets and is about a gentleman named Orgon who falls under the spell of Tartuffe, a conman who lures his way into Orgon's heart and house through false piety. Under this disguise, Tartuffe looks to drive away Orgon's son, marry his daughter, seduce his wife, imprison Orgon and leave the family penniless.

Despite a lethargic start, the five-act production finally takes off when Orgon, played with compelling zest by Patrick Clear, tells his daughter that she is to marry Tartuffe. Immediately the characters come to life and before long one is engrossed in the witty and amusing dialogue. Nick Sandys, one of Remy Bumppo's Artistic Associates, plays the title role. Sandys is spot on in his portrayal of a religious conman, and his Southern accent brings a spine-chilling effectiveness to his character. The cast also includes a memorable performance by Stephanie Diaz as the sarcastic and feisty maid.

One of the funniest moments of the night is delivered by Linda Gillium in her attempt to trap Sandys' Tartuffe into sleeping with her. The audience winces with laughter every time it goes a bit further knowing that perhaps the trap won't work. Watching Gillium and Sandys interact during the scene is an example of comedic timing at its best.

Much of the credit for the evening's success, however, belongs to Bolt's superb translation. Director James Bohnen worked with Bolt to further modify the play by changing some of the expressions from British to American. Bohnen does an excellent job staging this production. At times the story can be long-winded, but Bohnen never permits the production to get bogged down by the plot. Instead, he takes what many regard as Molière's greatest play and allows it to fulfill its purpose: make the audience laugh.

Tartuffe
When: Through March 5th
Where: Victory Gardens Theater, 2257 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago
Prices: $22 - $38.50