"The Liar" by David Ives is adapted from a comedy by Pierre Corneille. "The Liar." To tell the truth, I had no idea what to expect when I made my way onto the beautiful bucolic campus of Wellesley College to see this French farce. I was soon to learn that this comedy, written in scalding and scintillating iambic pentameter, would be a timely reminder that truth is a rare commodity, whether in the Tuileries Gardens of 17th century Paris or the Rose Garden of 1600 Pennsylvania of 2018.
Director Marta Rainer has put together a zestful cast who showed their mettle on the night I attended. Charles Linshaw, who normally plays Alcippe, was ill, and was ably replaced by Paul Michael Valley. Caitlin Graham, who plays the twin roles of Isabelle and Sabine, was taken ill during Act I, and was replaced by the assistent Stage Manager, the irrepressible Maggie Lees, who went on cold with script in hand, and carried the evening. Live theater! The show must go on; no lie!
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| Angela Bilkic as Lucrece Ariela Nazar-Rosen as Clarice "The Liar" by Pierre Corneille Directed by Marta Rainer Wellesley Repertory Theatre Through February 4th |
Dorante, a strong Dan Prior, is an inveterate liar, who has turned prevarication into an art form. The plot reminded me of Moliere meets Shakespeare comedy, with cases of mistaken identity and labyrinthine plot threads woven together to produce happy endings. He mistakenly woos Lucrece (Angela Bilkic) instead of her friend Clarice (Ariela Nazar-Rosen). Complications ensue. As Cliton, Dorante's conscience and Jiminy Cricket, Sam Warton almost steals the show. His flexible comic face and sprightly physicality made this character come alive - from the opening welcome to the audience given in character and in verse. Danny Bolton as Philiste and John Kinsherf as Geronte, Dorante's long-suffering father, are also excellent in their roles.
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| Danny Bolton as Philiste Dan Prior as Dorante Sam Warton as Cliton "The Liar" by Pierre Corneille Directed by Marta Rainer Wellesley Repertory Theatre Through February 4th |
I was among many audience members roaring with laughter throughout this play. A friend, upon hearing that the play was in verse, decided to pass on seeing it. What a mistake! If you think that a play in verse is boring, then you have fallen victim to fake news. The verse is handled deftly - both by the author and by these fine actors. Not only is it not an impediment; it is a delight. Truly!
Some performances are sold out, so get on the phone or on line and order your tickets now. You will not be sorry. And that is the Gospel truth.
WRT Website
Enjoy!
Al
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