Director’s Notes

The Imaginary Cuckold, also known as Sganarelle, like all of Moliere’s works, is a comedy of manners. With its twists and turns, one might also consider it a comedy of intrigue. The play is one-act, consisting of twenty-four scenes, with no intermission. It premièred on May 28th, 1660, at the Théâtre du Petit-Bourbon, which was the first theatre the troupe of Molière used after their return to Paris, in 1658.

Molière’s comedies were influenced heavily by Italian Commedia dell’arte troupes touring Europe. Commedia dell’arte spread all around Europe starting in the 1570s and was almost as at home in France as in Italy. We wanted to pay homage to these roots by incorporating a series of lazzi into the production. Since Imaginary Cuckold is only one act, sophomore Ariana Hernandez, at my request, took the lead in working with our “Commedia Cast” to develop a secondary story, while senior Stephanie Hatesohl and I rehearsed the play proper. We then folded the two together. I am very excited for you to see the results.

If there is a lesson at all presented in this play, I believe it is that we as individuals are never privy to the whole story when it comes to other people – even those closest to us. When we act out of passion, neglecting calm reason and a willingness to compassionately listen to one another, we can easily slide into assuming the worst of those around us. While that may be a simple truth, it isn’t always an easy thing to remember in the moment. Wouldn’t it be a wonderful thing if we could all take a moment, recognize ourselves in others, and then just have a laugh together at our all-too-common follies?

As Sganarelle reminds us… “Remember my example and be wise: When things look simple, don’t believe your eyes.”

—Matt Schwader Harbor, Director