Penn State’s Centre Stage will present “Tartuffe” from Tuesday, March 19, to Saturday, March 30, at the Pavilion Theatre. All performances will begin at 7:30 p.m.

The play, originally written by French playwright Moliere, was translated into English verse by Richard Wilbur and focuses on religious hypocrisy through satire.

The main character, Tartuffe, is a scoundrel who is taken in by the wealthy Orgon family out of pity. Throughout the production, Tartuffe almost destroys the family as his ministering affects the family’s spiritual and moral needs.

“Moliere wasn’t lampooning religion, but rather religious hypocrisy, false piety, and the gullibility of characters like Orgon,” artistic director Rick Lombardo said. “Three hundred and fifty years later, the play sadly remains as relevant and cutting as ever.”

“Because Tartuffe’s hypocrisy is condemned and ridiculed by all but fools from the very first moments of the play, why would audiences be confused about Tartuffe’s morality or seek to emulate him?” student dramaturg Mitchell Case continued.

Case also mentioned that the audience can see the hypocrisy and its enablers depicted on stage, hoping that members can recognize it in themselves and others as it acts as a theatrical mirror.

Those wishing to attend performances can buy tickets for $23. Preview performances are $20 and student tickets are $15, and tickets are available here. Any non-Penn State arts and architecture students can see Tartuffe for free by filling out this form.

About the Author

Nina Jeffries

Nina Jeffries is a senior secondary education English major, minoring in English from Uniontown, PA. If you don't know where that is, you're not alone. She's a Pittsburgh girl at heart, has an unhealthy obsession with "The Office", and still is in denial about One Direction breaking up. You can follow her on Twitter @njeffries06 and reach out to her email nej5096@psu.edu.

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