“The Imaginary Invalid” is being presented with a rich imagination at the LeFrak Center at Lakeside in Prospect Park in Brooklyn. Free to the public, this telling of Moliere’s delightful comedy, combining a story, humor, and dance (originally ballet, hip-hop is now the bill of fare), has been creatively and endearingly translated and directed by Lucie Tiberghien.
In partnership with Prospect Park Alliance, Moliere in the Park gives us all a great treat as we experience the story of the rich, but foolish Argan, who claims to be at death’s door and who constantly lets a quack physician, Dr. Purgon, prescribe enemas for him. Argan is trying to marry off his daughter, Angelique, to a doctor, so that he can have a doctor in the family at his disposal, but Angelique has met another man and has rapidly fallen in love with him. Argan, a generally miserable person, often verbally abuses Toinette, his servant. Toinette, however, is no shrinking violet: she not only will argue with Argan, but chastises him about his life decisions and treatment of Angelique. Argan’s wife, Beline, is not married to him for love; while he is fooled by her motivations, she is blatant about her wants and desires to others around her. Argan also has a sister, Beralde, who tries to tell him how gullible he is when it comes to his doctors. There’s quite a lot going on with this story and it is amusing to behold, and the insults fly rapidly among the characters.
Bringing a funny play like this to fruition takes a skilled, hilarious cast that has perfect comedic timing, tone, and gestures, and who never misses a beat. This is exactly what you get with this marvelous cast.
Sahr Ngaujah, whom we all recognize from “FELA!,” is exceptionally funny and fabulously cast as Argan, setting the pace from the opening scene and keeping the momentum going. Rory Furey-King is splendidly cast as Toinette. She is quick witted, quick tongued and often underappreciated by Argan, but she also orchestrates the events that follow as Argan tries to figure out his life. Shayvawn Webster is engaging as Angelique, who tries to figure out how to assert her opinion and convince her father she should be pleased with the man she marries — instead of marrying to benefit him. Naomi Lorrain is very versatile in two roles as Thomas, a doctor hoping to wed Angelique; and as Beralde, Argan’s sister. Mary Bacon is captivating as Beline, Argan’s wife. Her disdain for Argan is palpable. Doron JePaul is delightful as Cleante. Donte Bonner portrays four roles with distinction and humor. Omari Chancellor does well as Souffleur. Cal Hunt has the moves as choreographer and dancer, bringing a hip-hop flair. Johnathan Moore provides lovely musical accompaniment as composer and cellist.
The production will only run through May 25. For tickets visit moliereinthepark.com.