Tartuffe

Tartuffe, presented by WAAPA Third Year Acting students, and designed, built and crewed by WAAPA Production and Design students, is a fun vibrant and highly energetic incarnation of this more than 300-year-old play. Larger and brighter than life, the concept is bright and bold.

The set, designed by Charlotte Meagher, is, initially, striking and beautiful, but gradually reveals itself as reminiscent of the children’s book Wacky Wednesday, with odd furnishings and surprises. Pia Dewar’s costume design is similarly ‘out of kilter’ and while containing some stunning pieces, is an eclectic mix of eras and styles. The look is well supported by a strong lighting design and a vibrant and very French sound design from Aaron Davidson.

The acting style might be described as “extreme” makes most melodrama look tame, and his highly physical under the guidance of movement coach Sam Chester and Fight Director Lawrence Hassell. Pacey and punchy, the show moves swiftly, with a cast who bounce off each other (sometimes almost literally) nicely.

Some of the roles in Tartuffe are considered among the greatest in classical French Drama, and they are played with panache in this production. Brendan Halsey brings a broad Australian accent and a conman charm to the title role, nicely swirling Reme Dancy’s obstinate swindled Orgon. Delia Price is strong as Elmire - a powerful woman who holds her own in a male dominated society.

A standout performance was Gabrielle Wilson as maid Dorine, a beautiful and convincing performance that while over-the-top was rooted in truth - clever and knowing. Radhika Mudalier nicely handled the straightest character as Cleante, while Blaise Tindale relished the volatile and passionate Demis.

Laura Shaw and Tinashe Mangwana worked nicely together as Mariane and Valere, while William Bastow brought great presence to Madame Pernelle. Angelo Torres was efficient as bailiff Monsieur Loyal. At the performance reviewed, Sean Halley was “reading in” for the roles of Flipote and the Officer, usually played by Mia Fitzgerald. There was actually no reading involved, with Sean delivering a fully realised and solid performance - obviously at very short notice.

Tartuffe has a cheeky and modern feel and contains some surprises - even for those familiar with this classic. A vivacious, colourful and bold production.

Kimberley Shaw