The Hypochondriac

Synopsis

A quintet of quacks, a dizzy daughter and a meddling maid. What's a poor invalid to do? Argan, a confirmed hypochondriac, is determined to marry-off his daughter Angelica to someone suitable - a doctor - so that he can benefit from free medical treatment for his endless imagined illnesses. Unfortunately for him, Angelica has other ideas...

Our Review:

24 June 2009

This co-production of The Hypochondriac by Liverpool Playhouse and English Touring Theatre brings together a delightful concoction of outstanding performances, direction and adept adaptation.

Scouse poet Roger McGough has adapted his second Molière play following his acclaimed version of the French playwright’s Tartuffe last year. Turning prose into verse (delivered beautifully by a talented ensemble of nine) McGough impresses once again with his take on Moliere’s Le Malade Imaginaire, translating his classic tale of a wealthy gentleman's obsession with the 'quack' medical profession into a fast-paced poetic bubble of laughter with a brisk two hour running time.

Outstanding performances come through Clive Francis as Argan, who hardly leaves the stage and is comfortably at ease as the hypochondriac. His movement and range of expression bring some golden comedy moments, s...

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Latest User Review

rds - 18 October 2009:

Clive Francis, as far as I'm concerned, can do no wrong. He was brilliant in Roger McGough's slick rhyming adaptation. I could go on, but I won't - if it's still on the road as I write this and you are able to see it DO!...

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