Delusion, deception, debauchery. But oh so delightful. Deborah Anderson’s direction of William Wycherley’s comedy of manners The Country Wife at MTSU’s Tucker Theatre had all that and more as it opened Friday, March 30.
In the play, Jasper Horner, 1675 London’s notorious playboy, is back from France and?it is whispered around town that he is a medically certified?eunuch. This causes husbands throughout the British city to practically throw their wives at?him, in so much as now they can have their own affairs without losing their honor.
This Restoration period was indeed restored to the stage, as the mannerisms, speech, and posture of the players was?authentic enough you could have been at the London Palladium.
A huge kudos goes to costume director Tommy Macon, the wigs, costumes and shoes of period dress were a work of art within themselves. As each actor stepped on stage, the audience held their collective breaths waiting to see what colorfully extreme, yet period clothing greeted them next. Roars of laughter were heard?each time, until we finally began to understand, this was London 332 years ago.
The actors were impeccable, they truly stood the tests of a uproarious crowd, a slanted stage, a large casting, and 2 3/4 hours in heavy, outlandish costumes. If you want some?great belly laughs and guffaws, this is the play to see.
I have always thought the best of theatre was when the actors interact with the audience. This one did just that. Keep watch for Margery Pinchwife (Valerie Meek) behind her desk writing a letter to Mr. Horner. It is probably the single best five minutes of the entire show.
If I had any complaint at all, it would be from sitting on the third row, and still not being able to hear some of the dialogue?because of?the continued laughter of the crowd behind me.
Kudos and a deep bow go to Chris Ford, Alex Vernon, Will Fancher, Heidi Ervin and Ryan Chittaphong in their last?production on the Tucker Theatre stage. You each have given?MTSU theatre a real shot in the arm. You will be missed after this season.
“The Country Wife” continues at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 4, thru Saturday, April 7. Support this wonderful cast in the last show of the season at the Tucker.
