Analyzing The Play 'The Liar'

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Rohan Arora Gialdini English 9H December 2 2014 Of Lies and Laughter American High School Performing Art’s production of “The Liar”, directed by Troy River, is a pleasure to watch. Adapted by David Ives, the play was originally written by Pierre Corneille in the seventeenth century. Written in verse, “The Liar” is the epitome of humor and clarity, invoking laughter with every act. The story is centered around Dorante (Tim Horvath), a wealthy gentleman who arrives in Paris in 1643 and hires a servant named Clinton (Brandon Campos). Soon after, he begins to spin tales of daring military feats meant to impress the ladies, particularly Clarice (Corrine Tu) and her friend Lurece (Jasmine Meyer). When his father, Geroente (Trevor Broberg) seemingly …show more content…

For example, in Act 1 Scene 2, Clarice is accused by her fiancé Alcippe (Arthur Ramirez) of spending the night with another lover. When she denies, Alcippe tests her by asking her to repeat the term, “pomegranate”, and then questions how she can say the term without turning “into a curd of quivering pasty shame”. Corrine Tu does a masterful job of acting profoundly confused at Alcippe’s accusations and bizarre request. She is able to convincingly express confusion and then anger throughout the scene. Arthur Ramirez, on the other hand, expertly plays the role of an enraged lover, speaking with vexation and a touch of sadness. His anger at Clarice uttering “pomegranate”, as well as Clarice’s own perplexed expressions, causes laughter to break out from the audience. In addition, in Act 1 Scene 6, Dorante and Clinton meet with Clarice at midnight. As Dorante tries to impress Clarice with his romantic rhymes, Clinton attempts to complete them, enraging Dorante. Brandon Campos beautifully plays his part, interrupting Tim Horvath and the correct moment and having the perfect expressions that show that he hopes to complete each phrase correctly. Tim Horvath does a great job looking utterly annoyed with Brandon . Their chemistry and timing is perfect in the scene, and their seamless delivery is much appreciated by the audience. By playing the parts perfectly with natural ease, the actors and

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