Parson's Nose Theater (PNT), the acclaimed classical comedic theater company led by Artistic Director, Lance Davis, presents their first full production of the 2013-14 Season,Molière's The Middle Class Nobleman, opening Friday, November 8th.
Putting lipstick on a pig, the French master Molière gives us the narcissistic bourgeois, Monsieur Jourdain, who can buy all of the lessons but none of the talent. His ignorance is far from bliss for his wife and family. The Middle Class Nobleman will be performed in an original translation and adaptation by Parson's Nose Artistic Director, Lance Davis. The Parson's Nose Company will include Lance Davis, Mary Chalon, Marisa Chandler, Jill Rogosheske, James McDonnell, Barry Gordon, Gary Lamb, Mark McCracken, Tom Ashworth, James Calvert, and Nora Frankovich.
"Molière was actually the source of much of our vaudeville, radio and television comedy of the past hundred years," explains Mr. Davis. "He was a true theater man, stealing from the very physical Italians who loved 'lazzi', what we know as 'business' or 'schtick'. The quick paced dialogue, the running gags, obsessive characters, political statements, all came from Molière. He added the social commentary that made Norman Lear so famous in the 1970s with "All in the Family" and Trey Parker with "South Park". "The Middle Class Nobleman" is the story of Monsieur Jourdain, the crass, nouveau-riche bourgeois of Paris, who would sell his daughter to become a member of the upper classes. He's had all of the lessons but has none of the talent. Originally "Nobleman" was played in five hours for Louis XIV at Chambord, with ballet and music interludes, so in its way it was like a sophisticated vaudeville show even then. Come have a glass of wine and watch our actors bring all this to life."
Parson's Nose Theater's 2013-14 Season continues with The Middle Class Nobleman by Molière, November 8-10, 15-17, and 22-24, 2013. Friday and Saturday performances at 7pm, Sundays at 3pm. Running time appx. 90 minutes.
Parson's Nose Theater performs at Lineage Performing Arts Center located at 89 South Fair Oaks, Pasadena, CA 91105
Parson's Nose Theater presents The Middle Class Nobleman as part of their Full Production Series. Full Production Series shows are presented fully memorized and performed. All performances are "Pay What You Will" ($20 Suggested) and reservations may be made online at www.parsonsnose.com or by calling 626-403-7667. Tickets may also be purchased at the door. Ages 10+ suggested.
Videos