Review: TARTUFFE, The REP Birmingham

Photo credit: Geraint Lewis

Birmingham would not be the first place you’d think of to set Moliere’s 1664 play, but it is exactly where this RSC/Birmingham Rep production takes place. 

Adapted by writers Anil Gupta and Richard Pinto (whose previous collaborations include Citizen Khan and Goodness Gracious Me), and directed by Iqbal Khan (who recently brought us the Commonwealth Games ceremonies), this revamped, modernised version sees family man Imran Pervaiz (Simon Nagra) take Holy man Tartuffe (Asif Khan) into his home. 

All is not quite as it seems though, as the rest of the Pervaiz family see the real Tartuffe. His unholy behaviour and ulterior motives are not believed by Imran and this sets to split the family apart and Tartuffe’s gain is Imran’s loss.

It’s a brilliant take on a renowned classic. Deeply amusing and satirical in equal measures. However, it still finds time to highlight some ancient beliefs regarding women’s honour, victim shaming and historical attitudes to equality, that are just as relevant today as when it was written.

The production has an all-round talented cast, with a particular focus on Natalia Campbell as Amira and Olga Fedori as Darina who narrates the story with an individual charm and bluntness that wins the audience over immediately.

Using music, rhyming couplets and rap to move the story along, it has something for all generations to feel included and many relatable moments of family life.

Relevant, frank and successfully modernised.

**** Four stars

Reviewed by: Rachel Louise Martin

Tartuffe plays at The REP Birmingham until 5 November, with tickets available here.