Previewed: Tartuffe

Why did you decide to put on this production?

I think it was largely because it seemed quite a popular show. I’ve seen a number of productions of Tartuffe in the past, and each have been very different. For ours we’re using the entrance to Castle’s Great Hall, which fits the production perfectly. The text is genuinely hilarious, and the characters are the types of people you meet every day. It has a universal sense of humour, and there really is something in there for everyone.

Can you summarize the story for us?

It’s all about a religious imposter (Tartuffe) who goes to stay with a wealthy family. He convinces the master of the house to hand over all his property, and the story focuses on the family fighting back against this. It has quite a cruel sense of humour, as the audience are invited to laugh at every one of these characters; however, when you take a step back, you realise how horrible Tartuffe really is.

What’s your favourite moment in the show?

We have a massive table laid out with deserts. At one point, Tartuffe forces the mistress onto this table, and they both get completely messy: it’s absolutely ridiculous.

In under 10 words, why should people come and see Tartuffe?

Food fights in fancy French frocks

Venue: Castle’s Great Hall

Performances: 7.30pm Friday 16^th – Sunday 18^th November

Tickets: £5.50 DST / £6.00 Student / £6.50 Regular