YSU’s ‘Tartuffe’: Old script, modern humor, bawdy fun

By Eric McCrea

entertainment@vindy.com

Moliere’s comic masterpiece “Tartuffe” was banned after its first performance, but this only helped to make it insanely popular amongst the public. While the original version has been lost, revised scripts still retain the biting wit and bawdy characters that were considered so scandalous by King Louis XIV’s court.

Youngstown State University’s production features a talented cast, under the skilled direction of Matthew Mazuroski.

The story is set in the household of Orgon, played by Christopher Hager, who has befriended Tartuffe (Patrick Hobby), to the dismay of most of his family. While Orgon’s mother, Madame Pernelle, played by Kathryn Jerome, is questionably enamored with Tartuffe, she fights an uphill battle to convince the rest of Orgon’s household.

Tartuffe does himself no favors, salaciously trying to seduce his host’s wife, Elmire (Brooke Nobbs.) Even after being caught in the act, Tartuffe proves to be difficult to get rid of.

The entire cast performed remarkably. While the script is centuries old, the cast members imbued their words with a modern inflection, heightening the humor. Sam Mentzer, who plays the former nanny Dorine, was especially sassy. She was an audience favorite, and she earned some of the biggest laughs of the evening.

In the role of Orgon’s daughter Mariane, Claudia Gage was a modern, sometimes ditzy, teenager. At first, it was a tad off-putting, but it ultimately served her well.

Jerome is exceptional as the aged matriarch. Her role allowed her to show more vulnerability than many of the other characters. She was able to turn some seemingly innocent lines into something hilarious and tawdry.

As Damis, Orgon’s son, Stefon Funderburke was a storm of flamboyance, with aristocratic flair. He seemed to be at home on stage, and showed no signs of panic during a late entrance.

Quincy Carrier was easy to overlook in this show. He capably performed Cleante, the voice of reason, and unfortunately that meant fewer laughs.

In the title role, Hobby was impeccable and his physical comedy skills were impressive. Even though he played a villain, it was hard not to cheer for him. You almost don’t want him to lose in the end.

Despite his age, Hager was able to play beyond his years, without feeling contrived or immature. This quality was shared by Nobbs, who had an air of subtlety. Both of them prove that their studies have paid off.

A few smaller roles were noticeable standouts as well. Lindsey Pratt brought a sweet quality to the room when she was on stage, and was a nice reminder that speaking lines isn’t the only arrow in an actor’s quiver. Jack Rusk was incredible in his brief role of M. Loyal. His character was unique and well formed.

Costumes were integral in setting the period, and costume designer Katherine Garlick did not drop the ball. The amazing detail in every stitch could have been the entire show.

“Tartuffe” runs Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. For reservations, call 330-941-3105.