BWW Reviews: THE LEARNED LADIES at Shakespeare Theatre of NJ is Pure Enjoyment

"A man is mocked with jeering speeches

If in his house the woman wears the breeches."

Moliere from The Learned Ladies

Moliere's The Learned Ladies is now being performed at The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey's Outdoor Stage through July 27th. Area audiences will delight at the company's fine, frolicking presentation of this satirical comedy. Big hair, big ideas, and big blunders make the show a high-spirited theatrical event.

With superb direction by Brian Crowe, the The Learned Ladies moves seamlessly from scene to scene with perfect pacing. The artistic team has added just the right touches for this classic with scenic design by Charlie Calvert, lighting design by Hamilton E.S. Smith and costume design by Paul Canada.

The Learned Ladies first premiered at the Theatre du Palais-Royal in March of 1672. Considered one of Moliere's true masterpieces, it portrays timeless themes; jealousy, family differences and intellectual snobbery.

The Learned Ladies follows the romantic trials of young Henriette (Rachael Fox) and Clitandre (Maurice Jones). The couple's romance does not have the approval of three strong-minded women; Henriettes's mother, Philaminte (Marion Adler), her Aunt Belise (Alison Weller) and her sister, Armande (Susan Maris). This trio is the "learned ladies" or "les femmes savante" value scholarly pursuits and culture over domestic life. While they express their disapproval, Henriette's father, Chrysale (John Hickok) and her uncle, Ariste (Lindsay Smiling) are wholly in favor of the her marriage to Clitandre, setting the stage for real family conflict. The cast of characters is rounded out by the pretentious scholar, Trissotin (Clark Scott Carmichael), the house servant, Martine (Christine Sanders) and Lepine (Felix Mayes).

Family antics make for a hilarious romp as tensions rise and confrontations flourish. Without exception, the cast is outstanding in their roles; they deliver Moliere's humor and wit with impeccable timing.

The ladies are indeed learned, but are they wise? Find out as you enjoy an evening under the stars at The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey's Outdoor Stage. The Learned Ladies, is an ideal choice for summer entertainment; a show that will appeal to the whole family.

Performances of The Learned Ladies are Tuesdays through Saturdays at 8:00 pm, Sunday at 7:30 pm, and a special twilight performance on Saturdays at 4:30 pm. The grounds surrounding the amphitheater are perfect for picnicking before the performance. Tickets are $15.00 for students, $35.00 for adults and children under 5 are free. Group discounts are also available. For more information, call (973) 408-5600 or visit www.ShakespeareNJ.org.

Photo Credit: Jerry Dalia