February 20, 2008

Whitworth Theatre to Present Molière's "Tartuffe"

Who: Whitworth University Theatre Department     

What: Spring theatre production of Molière's "Tartuffe"

When: March 7, 8, 14, 15 at 8 p.m.; Sunday, March 9, at 2 p.m.

Where: Cowles Auditorium at Whitworth University

Cost: $7 general admission/$5 students and senior citizens. For more information, please call (509) 777-3707.

In 17th century France, Molière was the complete man of the theatre: famous comic actor, successful leader of a theatrical company, prolific playwright of farcical comedies. His most famous social comedy, "Tartuffe," is a boisterous farce that speaks of and depicts religious hypocrisy. According to Professor of Theatre and Director Rick Hornor, the play might be seen as being critical of religion, yet, it isn’t: It is critical of our human inclination toward credulity – to believe too easily. Molière chastises but wraps his criticisms in velvet layers of laughter.

Located in Spokane, Wash., Whitworth is a private, liberal arts university affiliated with the Presbyterian Church (USA). The university, which has an enrollment of 2,600 students, offers 53 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.

Contacts:

Jennifer Toulouse-Lee, theatre department program assistant, Whitworth University, (509) 777-3707 or jtoulouse-lee@whitworth.edu.

Julie Riddle, public information officer, Whitworth University, (509) 777-3729 or jriddle@whitworth.edu.