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A CurtainUp Review
Double Infidelity By Amanda Cooper
Double Infidelity's premise is straightforward enough: A charming, working-class girl named Sylvia has captured the heart of her cleverly disguised prince. Though she is attracted to this "servant" she loves and is loyal to Arlequin, the unmannered yet charming fool from her town. The prince summons her to the castle, Arlequin follows. As Sylvia continues to fall for the still disguised prince, Arlequin develops feelings for Flamina, a court lady. I'm not going to tell you how this play ends since your conjecture is bound to be right on. If you are craving a fresh adaptation or perspective on a classical comedy, The Pearl Theatre Company's current production will not satisfy that appetite. But if you are looking for a light, traditional take on Marivaux, by all means make your way to this East Village theater. Though director Beatrice Terry, has historically worked on such edgy shows as Lesbian Pulp-o-Rama, she shows a good feeling for the traditional with Double Infidelity. Though her staging is peppered with cute, quirky movements, there are no surprising departures from the classicals norm. The odd choice in this production is the decision to use a Commedia style mask only on Arlequin. True, Arlequin, in name and character represents the most obvious tie to this form of theater, but it creates an odd schism between him and the rest of the cast. The actors create a solid ensemble together, all bringing honesty to their traditionally portrayed characters. Rachel Botchan as Sylvia was appropriately beaming and energetic. Cameo role award goes to Sean McNall, whose portrait of the Lord is surprisingly dry, yet super-funny. Editor's Note: Marivaux has enjoyed something of a "comeback" in recent years. You'll find some more background on him in some of the reviews below: Triumph of Love The Inconstant Lovers Triumph of Love a musical adaptation
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Mendes at the Donmar Our Review At This Theater Leonard Maltin's 2003 Movie and Video Guide Ridiculous!The Theatrical Life & Times of Charles Ludlam Somewhere For Me, a Biography of Richard Rodgers The New York Times Book of Broadway: On the Aisle for the Unforgettable Plays of the Last Century 6, 500 Comparative Phrases including 800 Shakespearean Metaphors by CurtainUp's editor. Click image to buy. Go here for details and larger image. |