Bill Irwin Gets The Imaginary Invalid Up on Its Feet
Vulture • • entertainment
Key Points:
- Bill Irwin stars as Argan in the Broadway production of Molière’s last play, The Imaginary Invalid, bringing decades of comedic expertise to the hypochondriac role with physical humor and charm.
- The play satirizes medical quackery and self-delusion through Argan’s obsession with illness, surrounded by clever characters who manipulate him, including his maid Toinette and brother Beralde.
- The production features strong supporting performances, notably Brooks Ashmanskas as bombastic doctors and Crystal A. Dickinson as the scheming stepmother Beline, adding high drama and humor.
- Director Brandon J. Dirden incorporates elements of commedia dell’arte and theatricality, including an inventive pop-up book set and musical interludes that highlight the play’s farcical nature.
- While the ensemble is still fine-tuning the timing and precision required for farce, the show effectively uses theater itself as a means to expose folly and uplift the human spirit, running through November 22 at the Todd Haimes Theatre.
