Moliere's "Tartuffe" at Mountainside Public Library

The Mountainside Library’s annual summer theatre tradition returns this year, but with a different venue and time slot.

The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey’s Next Stage Ensemble will be performing Moliere’s Tartuffe.  Please note that this performance is a Saturday matinee and will be held, rain or shine, in the air conditioned community room of Mountainside Borough Hall.

 “We thought it would be nice to offer matinee performances this year,” says library director Michael Banick.  “Many people have commented that they would rather not have an evening program.  The 11:00 start time allows people to enjoy live theatre with plenty of time afterward for lunch, for the pool, or for whatever else you would like to do on your Saturday.”

 Moliere’s Tartuffe is as biting and witty today as it was when written over 300 years ago.  Orgon, a gullible and wealthy family man, invites the seemingly pious Tartuffe to stay at his home.  Despite the warnings of his family and friends, Orgon holds his friend Tartuffe in highest regard and showers him with gifts and money and even offers him his daughter’s hand in marriage.  The family tries to expose the true nature of the mysterious stranger, but will their efforts be too little, too late?  Tartuffe is a deliciously scathing attack on hypocrisy, false piety, hollow morality and gullibility. Directed by Mike Donahue.  

This performance is made possible by the generous support of the Friends of the Mountainside Library.  Admission is free. 

 The performance will run about an hour and there will be time afterward for audience Q & A. 

 Mountainside Borough Hall is located at 1385 Route 22 East.  For more information, please contact the Mountainside Library at 908-233-0115 or visit www.mountainsidelibrary.org