Moliere's "THE DOCTOR DESPITE HIMSELF” October 14, 2009

A Classic Comedy In One Act - RAVE REVIEWS for the
World Premiere of a New Translation

“Wacky . . . unassuming silliness . . . awash in slapstick aplomb” - LA Times

"The show has the wonderfully shrill pitch and frantic pace of a living cartoon. The results of all this artistry is a production that is timeless and crackles with the freshness ..." - L.A. Weekly

"Highly recommend" - American Radio Network

Moliere (1666) takes decisive aim at the medical establishment, which he particularly despised. In 2009, the medical establishment is again at the center of a national discussion, but now in America, we cogitate over how health care is administered, by whom, and for how much.

Onsite parking lot.
October 2- November 8, 2009.
Fri. & Sat. at 8,
Sun. at 2 and 7.

ADMISSION:
$20. Students, seniors and children , $15.
RESERVATIONS:
(310) 823-0710.

Sganarelle, a wood-cutter, has a somewhat contentious relationship with his wife Martine. As revenge for his rough treatment of her, Martine has him passed off as a skilled physician, in the hopes that he will make a complete fool of himself and earn his comeuppance. The trick backfires somewhat, in that he is soon accepted as a master physician, although he wouldn’t know the difference between a pill and an ointment. While attacking issues of substance, the cast of “The Doctor Despite Himself” offers the audience the best medicine of all: a hearty dose of laughter.
This new English language translation is by the Cast and Clara Bellar, prominent French film star. Directed by Award Winning Gulu Monteiro, Artistic Director of Ipanema Theater Troupe and professor at UCLA.

To make “The Doctor Despite Himself” fresh for a 21st Century audience, Monteiro is returning to theatrical tradition and “the language of the Buffoon.” In medieval Europe, the Buffoons, predecessors of commedia dell’arte, were professionally stylized clowns in garish costume, engaging controversial issues by utilizing physical comedy, satire and verbal wit. Costume designer: Swinda Reichelt . Lighting design: Joel Shapiro.