ABOUT THE HYPOCHONDRIAC

 

“‘The Hypochondriac’ is a theatrical treat as pleasurable as a full body massage.” - Curtain Up

 

“Riotously entertaining… a fresh-as-paint reimagining of a usually dusty comedy that suggests that Moliere's diagnosis of hypochondria and quack remedies remains bang on the money.” - Telegraph UK

 

Moliere's classic farce pokes fun at Argan, a man so obsessed by his own imaginary ailments that he can no longer control his haphazard household or the mercenary medics he employs. With doctors determined to grow fat from the profits of his condition, Argan's closest relatives battle to show him the truth of his situation. Using elaborate trickery, they strive to cure the real disease from which he suffers, managing to pile confusion upon hilarious confusion.

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“Fundamental French farce…The show's virtue is its fidelity to Molière in combining broad-bottomed farce with an assault on the morbid egotism of those for whom illness becomes a way of life.” – The Guardian

 

“A richly satirical comedy.” - The New York Times

 

“Arrogant doctors, mysterious maladies, incomprehensible jargon, “The Imaginary Invalid” might be the latest medical drama, rather than a 17th century comedy by the French playwright Molière. No doubt, that is why the play holds up so well. Despite all the discussions of bile and other humors, the fundamental relationships haven’t changed that much.”              - Culture Vulture

 

ABOUT THE PRODUCTION

 

THE HYPOCHONDRIAC

by Jean-Baptiste Moliere

directed by Wendy Overly

adapted for the Burbage Theatre Co by Wendy Overly and Jeff Church

 

CAST

Argan, a hypochondriac F. William Oakes

Toinette, Clare Blackmer

Beline, Lee Rush

Beralde, Valerie Westgate

Angelique, Gabrielle McCauley

Cleante, Mike Puppi

Dr Diafoirus, Marilyn Busch

Thomas/Dr Purgon, Ryan Leverone

Louison, Kelly Robertson

Bonnefoi/Fleurant, Michael Thibeault

 

PRODUCTION CREW

Stage Management, Ava Mascena

Lighting Design/Production Management, Jessica Winward

Set Design/Assistant Stage Management, Andrew Iacovelli

Costume Coordination, Ava Mascena

Costume Design Team, Ava Mascena, Jeff Church, Jessica Winward

Wig Design/Styling, Emily Christoffersen