An evening of comedy, elegance, and rhythmical language awaits you at athen intimate production of Moliere’s “Tartuffe” playing at House of the Redeemer at 7 E 95th Street in a gorgeous library, which only seats 100 people per show. The production has such an intimate setting, you feel privileged to be in the room as the actors move around among you.
In “Tartuffe” we are introduced to the absurd world of a rich man named Orgon, who believes in a false-prophet named Tartuffe. Orgon not only allows this man to dictate appropriate behavior for his family, but plans on bequeathing his wealth and only daughter to this elderly religious phony.
As the story unfolds, the audience gets to meet Orgon, his wife Elmire, his mother Mme. Pernelle, his son Damis, his daughter Mariane, and other members of Orgon’s household including Dorine and Cléante, along with Mariane’s boyfriend Valère. As we encounter these characters you hear the blind faith Organ’s mother has towards Tartuffe and Organ’s total dedication to this manipulative man. You listen as Elmire and Damis try to figure out how to get Orgon to know that Tartuffe is taking advantage of him. Elmire is a beautiful young woman on whom Tartuffe has set his lustful eyes. Orgon’s ignorance is beyond belief when it comes to recognizing Tartuffe’s real motives when he’s around his wife Elmire. In a scene that will leave you feeling breathless, Elmire tricks Tartuffe into showing his true self, but it backfires. For Orgon, ignorance is bliss — until it’s not. Enough said.
This production is satire that satisfies, and is so much fun to witness. All these characters are having such a good time, as is the audience. We hear as characters try to reveal who Tartuffe is to Orgon in the first act; while the second act contains that moment so many have been waiting for, as Tony Award winner, Andre De Shields enters dressed to the nines as Tartuffe. Being Andre, of course he comes into the room fabulously adorned with the bling abounding and his tremendous voice commanding your attention. I love how when Andre walks into a room, he does not have to utter a word, and the room just goes wild. Once he starts to sing, there is a respectful and appreciative silence that comes over the crowd as we devour every syllable he utters. Andre is not only a phenomenal singer, he is a beloved actor who deserves our respect and admiration. As Tartuffe he is sensational. His energy, his flexibility, is incredible to witness. He is nothing less than an acting gem to be cherished.
This ensemble is fantastic., and everyone in this cast is so well suited to their roles. Chris Hahn is engaging, vulnerable, and amusing as Orgon. Amber Iman is funny and focused as Elmire, Orgon’s wife, as she tries to open his eyes to Tartuffe’s true motives towards her. Her comedic timing is stunning. Tyler Hardwick is adorable and hilarious as Damis, a son trying to look out for his family’s interest. Alexander Socha is enchanting as Mariane. Charlie Lubeck is marvelous as Valere, Mariane love interest. Todd Buonopane is fabulous as Mme. Pernelle. Phoebe Dunn and Hannah Beck are well suited to the roles of Dorinne and Cleante.
It is absolutely an unforgettable experience to be in the room and hear the funny and witty way that Moliere’s work is translated by Ranjit Bolt. This step into an opulent world of deception comes together through precise direction by Keaton Wooden. This terrific production features sets and props by Kate Rance, costumes by Tere Duncan, lighting by Yang Yu, and sound by Bill Toles.
You only have until Nov. 23 to experience De Shields in “Tartuffe.” For ticket info, visit tartuffenyc.com.