The Illusion

Performances:

December 20, 2008 – January 17, 2009
Thurs – Sat at 7:30, Sun at 2pm
City Lit Theater
1020 W. Bryn Mawr

By Pierre Corneille, adapted by Tony Kushner

The Illusion is filled with fun, fury, and insight. Russell Berns captivates the audience with characters that cannot fully trust each other. An explosive performance by Ed Rutherford playing the parts of both Amanuesis, a partly mute servant and then Geronte, a man who can no longer hold his tongue is simultaneously frightening and delightful.

Ruth Smerling

Chicago Stage Standard

The Illusion is a most entertaining and well acted show that you’ll enjoy. It is a joyous fantasy on the nature of love. The poetic language, the sarcasm and humor together with the excellent ensemble acting makes for a pleasant theatrical experience. Nick Lake, Devon Candura and Tom Weber were particularly effective.

Tom Williams

ChicagoCritic

Production Staff

Director: Russell Berns*
Stage Manager: Sharla K. Nolte
Set Designer/Technical Director: Roger Wykes
Lighting Designer: Tamar Geist
Costume Designer: Jeanne Jones
Fight Choreographer: Stephen F. Murray*
Sound Designer/Composer: Christopher Kriz

*Indicates PTE Ensemble Member

**Indicates PTE Artistic Associate

Cast

Alcandre: John Christopher Brown
Melibea, Isabelle, Hippolyta: Devon Candura
Pleribo, Adraste, Prince Florilame: Steve Gensler
Elicia, Lyse, Clarina: Anne Korajczyk*
Calisto, Clindor, Theogenes: Nick Lake*
Amanuensis, Geronte: Ed Rutherford*
Pridamant: Tom Weber*
Matamore: Blake Williams

*Indicates PTE Ensemble Member

**Indicates PTE Artistic Associate