VWHS finalizing ‘The Miser’ production

VWHS Theatre Dept. information

The Van Wert High School Theatre Department is busy with its final rehearsals as students prepare for the opening of the comical production of The Miser.  This historical, famous play was written in late 17th century France by Moliere, original name Jean-Baptiste Poquelin, who is often considered the greatest French playwright of comedy.

The Miser is a classic French farce that has seen many productions throughout the centuries. This modern version, adapted by Miles Malleson, is filled with laughter and physical comedy that the audience will not want to miss.

The story starts out with the miser, a man named Harpagon, who is very wealthy, but does not spend a penny or trust anyone, including his own children, with his money. His son, Cleante, falls in love with a young girl, Mariane. Cleante is about to tell his miserly father about his intentions to marry Mariane when the miser shares his own wedding scheme. The old miser plans to marry the young lady with whom his son is in love, and he has arranged for a rich friend to marry his daughter, Elise. This is troubling to Elise because of her secret love with her father’s servant, Valere.

Many hysterically funny events take place throughout the production, and it gets even better when the miser finds out his hidden treasure has disappeared. The tragedy of the miser’s obsession with money is revealed in many parts of the performance, and yet his desire to be respected and liked is evident. This show should be a fun and entertaining night for the audience.

The cast and crew for the production include the following: Sage Burden, Lexi Ayers, Levi McCarter, Maggie Cripe, Tyler Nygren, Brittney Boaz, Jesse Daniels, Noah Miller, Valerie Barnhart, James Defore, Kendal Humrickhouse, Alea Hill, Drew Hoffman, Leandryce Miller, Harley Danylchuk, Morgan Lahmon, Alexis Billingham, Hannah Wireman, Shianne Baldwin, Meredith Arn, Samantha Brooks, Hayley Walker, Shelbee Miller, Alli Smith, and Rebecca Welker.

The production will begin at 7 p.m. Friday, November 22, and Saturday, November 23, at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center. Tickets may be purchased by calling the box office at 419.238.NPAC, while tickets will also be available at the door.

The Miser (Malleson) is presented by special arrangements with Samuel French Inc.  Support Van Wert High School student actors by enjoying an evening of comical entertainment at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center.