The Malcontent
Antaeus, a now-20-year-old classical theatre company, has proven itself great once again with their double-cast production of John Marston’s just-about unknown dramatic comedy, THE MALCONTENT. Written in 1603, his setup is confusing, so if you go, DO read the plot synopsis: in short, before the start of the play, Duke Altofront of Genoa (JD Cullum) has been deposed and banished from his city by the cunning villain, Mendoza (Adrian LaTourelle). Mendoza has elevated a weak nobleman, Pietro (Mark Doerr), into the Duke’s position and he has plans for Altofront’s beloved wife, Maria (Devon Sorvari), whom he has imprisoned by him for a future wedding with this blackguard. But unbeknownst to them (but not to us), Altofront has come back into his city in disguise as an ascetic scold, Malevole the Malcontent, making fun of everyone in power. (Don’t ask how they don’t recognize him -- that’s Elizabethan suspension of disbelief for you.) How Altofront manages to fix everything is the great fun of the evening.
Apparently, Marston was satirizing the new Scottish court of King James I, albeit subtly. So the references are long outdated (don’t even try and make connections), but the play allows for terrific character parts that is the greatest strength Antaeus has to offer. That, plus superb dramaturgy and direction. As adapted and directed by Elizabeth Swain, the play moves right along, on a gorgeous set designed of warm-gold wood and red/gold tapestry by Tom Buderwitz and clothed in period-perfect costumes, designed by A. Jeffrey Schoenberg. Special mention must be made to the original score by Peter Bayne, sounds that are arguably authentic to early 17th Century; a treat for the ears and one that helps us follow the quick ups-and-downs of the convoluted plot.
The Wittols cast alternates with the Cuckolds cast (that review to follow) and then the cast will mix-it-up from night to night, The Beccos. One literally needs the program to know who is who, as they don’t always call each other by names – more confusion. Some of the outstanding cast members include Cullum, exceptionally trained in language and movement, added to which his intelligence in making character choices. Also, LaTourelle as the evil Mendoza; as proved with last year’s LEAR, LaTourelle has a fine command and use of his body and his voice. This year he has added a fine grasp of farce. Saundra McClain is a very funny psndress and Mark Doerr’s weak Pietro manages to find some backbone when push comes to shove. Laura Wernette also shines in her under-written role of Pietro’s wife.
So, now you know. This is glorious theatre that must be acknowledged by increased audiences – do yourself the favor and go.
Antaeus-at-the-Deaf West Theatre, 5112 Lankershim Blvd, North Hollywood, CA 91601. Tickets: 818.506.1983 or at www.antaeus.org.