Kent-Trumbull’s ‘Tartuffe’ presents ultimate con man

By TRACEY D’Astolfo

entertainment@vindy.com

CHAMPION

Kent-Trumbull Theater lays the groundwork for “Tartuffe” with a set befitting a 17th-century French nobleman, complete with grand marble staircase

It completes the visual by dressing the cast in exquisite costumes.

But Moliere’s biting comedy is realized fully only because of Joseph Toto and Peter Byrne, in the roles of Tartuffe and Orgon.

Toto is as splendid a Tartuffe as you are ever likely to see. The anticipation builds for his first appearance, and the play — directed by Daniel- Raymon Nadon — kicks into high gear once he does.

With an unruly shock of black hair and a slim mustache that reeks of deviousness, the rubberfacedToto is masterful. He pours oily charm all over the foppish Tartuffe in one of the best character portrayals of the season, and it’s made all the richer because of the character’s iconic status.

Tartuffe is a con man who has wheedled his way into Orgon’s home by bamboozling the master of the house. He plays at piety but is as hypocritical as they come.

The only one fooled is Orgon, who would banish his own son for speaking ill of Tartuffe.

Byrne is a standout as Orgon. With heaping measures of pomposity and petulance, he puffs the character into precisely the type of man that Moliere skewers so well.

When Orgon realizes that Tartuffe, whom he had placed on a pedestal, is the worst type of fraud, he momentarily loses some of his bluster. Byrne handles this reality-check exceptionally well, lending a deeper dimension to the character.

A student cast brings the household to life in sturdy fashion. It includes Evan Graham as Orgon’s friend Cleante; Haley Jane Otto as his wife, Elmire; Daniel Parsons as his son, Damis; Hannah Gillespie as daughter, Marianne; Chris Rapinz- Kesler as Marianne’s suitor, Valere; Jenna Cintavey as Madame Pernelle; and Christine Fowler as Dorine the insolent maid.

David Ruple plays Laurent, Tartuffe’s disingenuously loyal servant. In hilarious fashion, he mirrors his master’s sleaziness without ever saying a word.

Marian Phillips, costumer for the play, deserves a tip of the hat for her handiwork. The flamboyant French finery shows great skill and attention to detail, and it’s almost worth the price of admission.

“Tartuffe” will be presented at 3 p.m. today; 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 3 p.m. next Sunday. Kent-Trumbull Theater is at 4314 Mahoning Ave. N.W., Champion; call (330) 675-8887.