Union College Theatre Presents Tartuffe: Born Again

Caleb Hammons, Charlissa Harris and Danny Nettleton rehearse a seduction scene in the Union College Theatre production of Tartuffe: Born Again, which opens February 13.

Union College Theatre's Tartuffe: Born Again, an adult comedy not suitable for children, will open on Thursday, February 13 at the Rector Little Theatre. Performances continue Friday and Saturday, February 14, 15 and February 21, 22. Curtain for all performances is 8:00 p.m. and admission is $5.00. Tickets may be purchased at the Union College Bookstore or at the door on performance nights. For more information, call 546-1312.

Tartuffe, a religious hypocrite, was originally born on the Parisian stage in the 17th century, amidst much controversy. Many religious hypocrites of that time were offended by Moliere's play and were successful for a while in their campaign to keep this satire off the stage. The King of France, Louis XIV, finally had to use his considerable influence to overcome the protest and Parisian audiences were delighted.

Since those who would use religion as a tool to line their own pockets have never been completely vanquished, Moliere's Tartuffe has delighted audiences with its sharp satire ever since.

Union College Theatre is using a translation by Freyda Thomas that updates the play, setting the action in Baton Rouge and transforming Tartuffe into a televangelist. Ms. Thomas, however, uses rhymed couplets to remain true to the witty elegance of the original. Occasionally, she has fun at the expense of the classical tradition and this adds an additional layer of comedic effect.

The key role of Tartuffe is being performed by Caleb Hammons. Audiences familiar with Caleb's talents should not miss this last chance to see him perform before he departs to continue his education.

Melissa Day, another UCT veteran, will be performing a role originally designed for a male character: Moliere's voice as the agent of reason who attempts to rescue a family from the greedy machinations of Tartuffe.

Freshman Danny Nettleton takes on the role of Orgon, the head of this endangered family, who has already tried the patience of his loved ones with extreme behavior in the past.

Shanon Ingram, last seen as Antigone's Nurse, plays the leading female character in this play. Elevated from Moliere's saucy maid to a saucy executive assistant, Dorine amuses the audience by exasperating her boss with her attempts to bully the family members.

Returning to UCT after a semester's absence, Charlissa Harris will portray Orgon's wife, the object of Tartuffe's lust and his effort to seduce her to commit adultery.

Jennifer Church, Elisha Comer, Shastina Parahoo, Ricky Ball, Christie Peace, Justin Terry, and Ashley Bowman round out the remainder of the cast.

Matthew Wells, a veteran of many onstage appearances and backstage leadership, takes on the double duties of Stage Manager and Technical Director. Matthew is joined by Lori Lineville as Properties Manager and Hannah Sizemore as Wardrobe Mistress. Others in the crew are Amanda Ingles, Ashley LaFlamm, Nichole Ott, and Chris Garland. Frank Shelton of Barbourville's own TV Channel Four is assisting the production as video engineer.

January 31, 2003

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