Théâtre Français De Toronto Presents LE MENTEUR (The Liar) By Corneille
For the very first time, Théâtre français de Toronto is producing an original production of a Pierre Corneille's Le Menteur (The Liar). This five-act comedy deftly employs a vivid language of rare virtuosity. The play runs at the Berkeley Street Theatre from April 11 to 22, in French with English surtitles.
Le Menteur tells the story of the young Dorante at the moment of his arrival in Paris and his introduction into a world of gallantry and prestige. There, he invents a thousand lives in order to carve himself a choice place in his new environment. However, after a misunderstanding about the names of two young women, Lucrèce and Clarice, Dorante finds himself caught in a cascade of lies. No longer able to tell truth from fiction, he himself gets lost in a maze of falsehoods.
Beyond the virtuoso comedy of Dorante's extravagant stories, this play delivers a genuine reflection on the place of truth in relationships and the concept of social status in the contemporary world. It introduces us to a generation that, devoid of social or political influence, uses lying as a tool of rebellion. Behind every invented lie, is there not a response to our collective need to believe in stories? Do we in fact judge lying or the ability of the liar to convince us?
At a time when technology broadcasts news as quickly as it takes to determine its veracity, this baroque comedy rings pertinent in today's media rich world.
Directed by Joël Beddows. With Shiong-En Chan, Alex Côté, Valérie Descheneaux, François Macdonald, Inka Malovic, Guy Mignault, Nico Racicot and Nabil Traboulsi.
Set, Costumes, and Props: Melanie McNeill | Lighting: Chantal Labonté | Soundscape: Ben Gibson | Stage Management: Melanie Hall
Prices: Regular: $49 | Seniors: $42 | Weekdays and matinees: $45 | Seniors: $38 | Under 30 and Artists: $25 | Pay-what-you-can Tuesdays and Wednesdays | Saturday Rush Seats: $20 at the door | Group rate for 8 or more: $25 per ticket
Box Office: 416.534.6604 or theatrefrancais.com
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