Theatre AUM has done it once again. They have exceeded the expectations of many. From September 30- October 10, the production of The Misanthrope had been cycling repeatedly for everyone’s enjoyment. The Misanthrope was written by Moliere in French and later translated to English by Richard Wilbur. This production was entered into the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival. This program rewards students’ scholarships, internships, grants, and awards for actors, directors, playwrights, and etc. The director of this work of art was Mike Winkelman. He couldn’t have put this romantic comedy together without his scenic and costume designer, Val Winkelman, and sound designer Morgan Prude
The scenery was very stationary. Moliere wrote this play secluded to one room within Celimene’s house in New Orleans (though the original location is in Paris). There were multiple props used in this play. The character Philinte utilized the props the most. He was like the nosey friends who always snacked as they listened. There was only a table and a few chairs in the middle of the floor. The characters used them as they should. The transitions of those few items created the scene for the next Act. All of the actors were incredible.
My top three characters from the play are Arisinoe, Oronote, and Eliante. These three characters are character I could relate to the most. They aren’t the main characters, but their roles are just as important. These three characters are like collectibles items, its something you wouldn’t want to miss out on. All three of these characters are played by actual AUM students.
Arisinoe is played by Brittany Carden. This character is someone everybody could relate to. This character was based off a snake in the grass friendship. This character was a character that told people what other people thought of them. Brittany played this character well, not saying she is really conniving, but I could really tell she have a flexible personality that allows her to venture outside of her normal personality. She captivated the character to the tee. Brittany was strong with her words, she hadn't the exact attitude of the character, and she made herself into the serpent.
Oronote was played by LaBrandon Tyre. When thinking of this character I immediately image the unattractive billionaire. He was one of Celimene’s guys, but he was the romantic poem writer, his attempts count for something in my book. LaBrandon did a wonderful job in interpreting the character. The most entertaining part about Oronote’s character was when he was reciting his poem. He was reciting as if he just knew his poem was perfect. When Alceste criticized that poem I almost cried laughing. LaBrandon did a wonderful job in placing himself into character. His tone was strong like a billionaire, he floated around the stage as a poet, and he was just all around entertaining.
Eliante was played by Alicia Fry. This character was the girl next door. She was humble, intelligent, and loved the rebel older guy. She loved Alceste even though he was madly in love with her cousin Celimene. She reminded me of Merdule from Family Matters. She had the snort, the books, and the all around patience. Alicia was really humble with this role. It was like she was taking her time. She was playing it careful, and that’s the way to play a pure and innocent character. Her voice coincided with the character, her snort was hilarious, and I really saw innocents in her actions. I loved when her character fell madly in love with Philinite. She knew in her heart that Alceste was too advanced for her.
The Misanthrope was both entertaining and timeless. I would really prescribe this play as a must see. I would rate this play as PG-13 due to the advance use of words and some of the metaphors. Theatre AUM has done it again. If you missed it, you missed out on a treat.
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