Kaufbeuren, Germany – A fresh adaptation of Georges Feydeau’s celebrated comedic play, “The Flea in the Ear,” premiered recently at the Theatre in the Tower, following an initial run at the parish hall of the Herz-Jesu-Kirche Neugablonz. The production, originating from a translation by Manfred Hinrichs, promises an evening brimming with laughter and intricate plot twists.
The Story Unfolds: A Comedy of Errors
The narrative begins when Raymonde Chandebise receives a puzzling package containing her husband’s suspenders, triggering suspicions of infidelity. Raymonde, hoping to test her husband’s loyalty, conspires with her freind Lucienne Homenidès De Histuanga to create a fictitious rendezvous invitation. this sets off a chain of mistaken identities and hilarious encounters.
The situation rapidly escalates as Raymonde’s friend Romain Tournel, a self-proclaimed womanizer, inserts himself into the fabricated scenario. Adding to the confusion, Camille Chandebise, the couple’s nephew, and Antoinette Plucheux, the servant’s wife, independently choose the same hotel for a secret meeting. The resemblance between the hotel’s inebriated employee, Poche, and Victor-Emmanuel Chandebise, only heightens the comedic chaos.
Cast Shines in a Whirlwind of Performances
Jürgen Chmiel delivered a standout performance in the dual role of Victor-Emmanuel Chandebise and Poche, seamlessly navigating the contrasting characters. Katrin Uhlir portrayed Raymonde Chandebise with fluctuating emotions, convincingly depicting her jealousy and potential infidelity. Lorena Röhrl captivated as Lucienne, consistently evading her husband Carlos Homenidès De Histuanga, played with fervent intensity by Alexandra Epple, who threatened those around him upon discovering his wife’s written correspondence.
Melanie Claus, as the brothel owner Augustine Ferraillon, and her sister Olympe, portrayed by Ulrike Tabery, added spice to the drama. both were persistent to secure the affections of Doctor Finache, played by Bernd Frank, and maintained strict control over their establishment.Marie Schubert excelled with her portrayal of secretary Camille, masterfully conveying a speech impediment that required her to write down communications for Romain Tournel, played by Oliver Chmiel.
The production also benefited from the energetic portrayal of Mario Kämper as the American character Rugby, whose unpredictable appearances and eagerness for companionship contributed to the play’s lively energy. Rebekka Chmiel, as the confidante to whom the entire story is recounted, cleverly revealed the fantastical nature of the events.
Key Performance details
| Character | Actor |
|---|---|
| Raymonde Chandebise | Katrin Uhlir |
| Victor-emmanuel Chandebise/Poche | Jürgen Chmiel |
| Lucienne Homenidès De Histuanga | Lorena Röhrl |
| romain Tournel | Oliver Chmiel |
Directed by Daniel Frank, with assistance from Birgit Haas, the play was visually enhanced by Renate Jung’s inventive costumes and a creatively designed stage featuring lighting and sound technology. The energetic staging was particularly reminiscent of a fast-paced “flea circus”.
Additional performances are scheduled for november 7th, 8th, 13th, 14th, and 15th at 7:30 PM at the Stadttheater Kaufbeuren. Tickets can be purchased online at www.theater-im-turm.de/der-floh-im-ohr and at the Bücher Menzel advance booking office in Neugablonz.
The Enduring Appeal of Farce
Farcical comedies like “The Flea in the Ear” remain popular today due to their ability to provide escapism and lighthearted entertainment. The genre’s reliance on slapstick humor, mistaken identities, and fast-paced dialog continues to resonate with audiences seeking a reprieve from everyday life. According to a recent report by the National Endowment for the Arts, participation in the performing arts remains strong, with comedy consistently ranking among the most popular genres. (Source: National Endowment for the Arts)
Frequently Asked Questions About ‘The Flea in the Ear’
Q: What is ‘The Flea in the Ear’ about?
A: ‘The Flea in the Ear’ is a comedic play centered around suspicions of infidelity and a series of escalating misunderstandings, leading to a whirlwind of hilarious events.
Q: What type of play is ‘The Flea in the Ear’?
A: it’s a classic farce, characterized by its fast-paced action, slapstick humor, and mistaken identities.
Q: Where is the play being performed?
A: The play is being performed at the Stadttheater Kaufbeuren in Germany.
Q: Who wrote ‘The Flea in the Ear’?
A: The play was written by Georges Feydeau, a renowned French playwright.
Q: Is this production suitable for all ages?
A: While the play is generally suitable for most audiences, it may contain mature themes and language. Parental guidance is advised.
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