The Man of Mode – a dark, sexy, acid-tongued comedy of manners, returns to the stage in a fresh, new translation with a modern twist at Chapel Off Chapel from 18 May 2016 – proving that, 300+ years later, people are always the same; alarming, absurd, and definitely here to entertain you.
The great philanderer, Dorimont, finally meets the woman of his dreams, but is it possible for this charismatic libertine to give up his womanising ploys for true love? In his wonderfully wicked way he is every man’s secret self, and every woman’s guilty pleasure…
Based on the infamous Lord Rochester and his entourage, The Man of Mode follows an abundant cast of lovers and losers, and serves up the perennial battle of the sexes with wit, elegance, and champagne comedy.
One of the three biggest hits of the 1670s, the return of this iconic Restoration Comedy highlights the staying power of this kind of satire. That not only do audiences still love to laugh at it, but that actors and writers still love to play with it.
“I fell in love with Moliere, madly, then the English plays of the same era,” explains writer Janet Dimelow. “Dorimant (John Wilmot) is typical of the great, charismatic hero of this era, adorable despite his bad behaviour. They are deliciously irreverent.”
“They laugh knowingly at the human condition. There is no belief in “God” just “Now”! They have great energy and wit. They just need the Moliere treatment – to be translated into modern English for ease of access.”
Directed by Dirk Hoult, The Man of Mode stars Josh Futcher and features a cast of some of Melbourne’s hot young things, who promise a wonderfully full-bodied, cheeky night out!
Director: Dirk Hoult Featuring: Josh Futcher, Catherine Glavicic, Dominic Weintraub, Elizabeth McColl, Emma Pursey, Jake Fehily, Leah Baulch, Louisa Fitzhardinge, Maty Young, Ryan Murphy, Tamiah Bantum
The Man of Mode
Chapel Off Chapel, 12 Little Chapel Street, Prahran
Season: 20 – 28 May 2016 (previews: 18 & 19 May)
Bookings: (03) 8290 7000 or online at: www.chapeloffchapel.com.au
Image: Josh Futcher – photo by Aaron Walker