Tartuffe by Moliere.
Roger Mc Gough version.
Tartuffe – A wickedly hilarious farce. Think Bridgerton meets Blackadder!
Director/choreographer Heather Davis
Composer Georgina St. George
Assistant to the Director Sharmila Peake
Production Week: 2nd to 5th April 2025
Rehearsals: Sundays 6-8.30pm and Monday evenings 7.30-10pm from 12th January 25.
Open Auditions – Headgate Studio – 5 female roles & 6 male roles
*Ladies should wear a long skirt for the audition and low heeled shoes.
Workshop Audition 1 – Sunday 24th November 7-9.30 pm
Workshop Audition 2 – Tuesday 26th November 7.40-9.30pm
Character Descriptions & Skills
Tartuffe (The Imposter or Hypocrite), a timeless comedy classic by French playwright, Moliere. It was first performed in 1664 and there have been numerous productions and adaptations since. For those unfamiliar with the play, check out youtube for some fun if not bizarre productions! I have chosen the Roger McGough version of Tartuffe as his ‘Scouse’ wit and rhythmical verse trips off the tongue in a fun engaging way and the language is very accessible to all.
Tartuffe is a religious man who has been welcomed into the home of wealthy merchant Orgon and his beautiful wife Elmire. His religious status makes him respected by many and he quickly establishes both trust and power over Orgon and his household, much to the distaste of Orgon’s family. However, deception is at play and we discover through the gossiping of both family and key servant Dorine, that Tartuffe may not be as virtuous as he seems. They suspect Tartuffe has deceived Orgon. Tensions run high as the audience are asked to consider is Tartuffe a friend, a fraud, a miracle or a hypocrite? Eventually the family develop a plan to outwit Tartuffe before Orgon’s house comes crashing down around him.
Style.
Tartuffe is a restoration comedy, a comedy of manners or a satirical romp! Therefore, it’s a fun play to perform. All roles will have plenty of opportunities on stage through the interplay between masters and servants. We will set the play in the Regency/Baroque time period which will therefore involve elaborate costumes and some wigs. Actors will depict the etiquette of the royal court but each will have their own character traits. You might take inspiration from Commedia dell’ Arte stock characters for example. The vision is to entertain our audience through pacey delivery of verse, hilarious comedic moments and subtle reveals of sub plot.
Interested? Then click here to complete the audition registration form.