Theater review: The Misanthrope

by Rick A. Elina of of North Dallas Gazette

Blunt honesty versus false politeness is a question civilized people have wrestled with since civility first reared its well-mannered head.

In The Misanthrope, which wraps up its run this weekend at the Dallas Theater Center, the title character, Alceste, played brilliantly by Adrian LaTourelle, has a jaded view of mankind. All actions no matter how considerate are seen through a sardonic sneer. Philinte (Matthew Gray) philosophically opposes Alcleste’s unapologetic view. He defends disingenuous tact as mannerly. In the opening scenes, the audience witnesses the lengths Philinte goes in the name of fraudulent goodness. He embraces a presumably close friend only to reveal after departing that he had no idea who the man was.

The discourse between the two characters would be less enthralling and entertaining except for the talent of the two actors. The effortless interaction between the two men with polar opposite views propels a dialogue laden plot that might otherwise collapse under its own weight. After all the story is told in verse. In one particular scene, the colorful Oronte (Ash Smith), a mutual friend, asks their opinion of a sonnet he had just written. In spite of his insistence on honesty, honesty is not really what he wants. Yet, Alceste and Philinte each deliver with fluent ease their own brand of honesty.

Alceste’s love interest, Celimene, is performed by the elegant Kelly Mares. Ms. Mares has the ability to communicate volumes with a tilted smile. Celimene has many suitors much to the chagrin of Alceste. Her nemesis, Arsinoe (Lynnda Ferguson) elevates prudishness to heights that rival Celimene’s promiscuity. Ms. Ferguson, a gifted actor, effectively uses her intense gaze to sufficiently condemn Celimene and her moral void.

This proficient cast is rounded out by the clownish characters Clitandre and Acaste, played by Regan Adair and Shawn Fagan. As additional suitors of Celimene, this dynamic duo brings energy with a bit of animation each time they appear on stage.

Technically, The Misanthrope worked on every level. Fitz Patton’s sound design exuded a power that underscored the formidable aristocracy of the period. Lee Savage’s set reached a lavish level of decor that would make Louis XV blush then turn green with envy. Junghyun Georgia Lee’s costuming was realistic with impeccable detail right down to the last shoe buckle. Lighting was off slightly with intermittent glare sharply reflected from the scenic art located upstage giving the otherwise bright colors a “washed out” look.

The comedic elements of The Misanthrope resonate as much today as they did 350 years ago, a sure sign of a comedy masterpiece. However, some of the modern product placement seemed remarkably out of place and could have easily reduced the show to mere camp. Thankfully this didn’t happen. Director David Kennedy’s fine pacing and even direction made this production seem shorter than its two-hour run time.

Purchase tickets online or by calling 214-522-8499.

Rick A. Elina is a playwright based in Plano, Texas and is the Theatre Critic for the North Dallas Gazette. He can be reached at rickaelina@aol.com