MONMOUTH – The Theater at Monmouth is offering an interesting production of “La Bete” by David Hirson that has lovely costumes, a simple attractive set, poetic verse and razor-sharp performances.
Though appearing to be a classic French farce, the show is contemporary, having debuted in 1991. It seems to have gained a theater-world following although it had only 16 previews and 25 performances on Broadway.
It’s the story of Valere (Dustin Tucker), a buffoon of a performance artist, who descends upon an acting company in the court of Prince Conti (Timothy Davis-Reed). The acting company is led by Elomire (Mark S. Cartier), a playwright/actor/director lacking inspiration who has little feel for comedy. The prince has issued a writ that Elomire welcome Valere into his theater company, though Elomire wants nothing to do with him.
The problem is that Valere is a self-indulging sort, a fact that becomes evident when he makes his first appearance on stage and proceeds with a 20-minute or so monologue. The show follows the antics of whether or not Valere gets to join the troupe.
Director Lucy Smith Conroy has directed a very funny production of a difficult play. Great casting and split-second timing make this production soar.
Spouting virtues
Tucker is brilliant with frenetic energy as he struts about the stage spouting the virtues of his character’s dogma and genius. An actor’s monologue can be extremely difficult since there is no one else on stage who can help out if one should “go up” on a line. Tucker seems to have no problem here. From his monumental dialogue at the beginning of the show through his lengthy ramblings, Tucker has wonderful pacing and never misses a beat.
Cartier’s Elomire is the perfectly tortured artist, one who’s highly principled, haughty and impatient. Cartier shines in this kind of role, though we know from previous Monmouth productions that he’s a master of comedy as well.
Nick Gallegos adeptly plays a hunchbacked sidekick, while Carmel Javaher shines as the dimwitted French maid and Timothy Davis-Reed is fine as the regal prince.
The set and costumes by John Story perfectly grace the elegant stage and environs at the historic Cumston Hall for this thoroughly enjoyable production.
“La Bete” runs in repertory though the month of August. For ticket information, call 933-9999 or visit www.theateratmonmouth.org.
Dan Marois is an actor, writer and producer and owner of Main Street Entertainment and Mystery for Hire. He can be reached at [email protected].
“La Bete”
by David Hirson
In repertory through Aug. 27
Tickets:
General: $24
Senior/matinee: $22
Student: $20
Shows:
Evening performances begin at 7:30 p.m., except for Sundays when they start at 7 p.m. Matinees begin at 2 p.m.
Location:
Cumston Hall in Monmouth
FMI: call (207) 933-9999; visit www.theateratmonmouth.org
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