Molière’s Tartuffe

‘The only crime lies in being found out’

A new version by Frank McGuinness
Directed by Caitríona McLaughlin

The Abbey Theatre’s production of Tartuffe is a classic dramatic comedy about a hypocrite; a fraud who inveigles himself into a family’s home and heart.

Molière didn’t know he was writing about 21st century Ireland, but Frank McGuinness certainly did! We can all recognise figures like Tartuffe, who say one thing but do another behind closed doors. The difference is that, today, Tartuffe uses 280 characters and knows all the best angles for his selfies.

Under Caitríona McLaughlin’s direction, Frank McGuinness’s retelling of this exuberant farce is wrapped in a flamboyant production, reflecting the age in which we live. Lavish design and costumes are more haute couture than baroque, while the pop-influenced soundtrack is a statement in itself.

★★★★ 'a techno-fuelled bacchanal... Versace-meets-Versailles... McLaughlin marshals the 12-strong cast with aplomb' The Financial Times

★★★★ 'edgy, irreverent and witty' The Irish Mail on Sunday

'an effervescent production in which great actors have a brilliant time' The Irish Times

'a madcap production full of surprises' Irish Independent

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Charming to some, a danger to others, one family risks losing everything if he gets his way.

An Abbey Theatre production, this new version of Molière’s Tartuffe by Frank McGuinness is directed by Caitríona McLaughlin. A 17th century classic, given an audacious contemporary makeover - where truth faces off with deceit, who has the last laugh?

Molière’s exuberant comedy is brought back to life in an opulent Irish retelling of this classic tale.

Age: 12+

Programme Notes: Audio / PDF