Molière, the 17th century playwright who popularized the Don Juan legend, was nothing less than a master of comedy in Western literature. Therefore, it is no surprise that the renowned Pearl Theatre Company produced The Misanthrope in their current season.

The entire show was absolutely stupendous, not for its scenery or historical references but for its pure humor and because it’s very relatable. Molière lived in a time and society that is much like ours. He was inspired by the flaws, thus exploiting them through satires and parodies perhaps. Centuries later this purpose has not been lost through various adaptations. It has been redefined but in a different culture. This why this comic play is anything but outdated. The Misanthrope employs the characters and lovers, Alceste and Celimene,  both completely dynamic. This makes for an interesting progression in plot throughout. Alceste’s obsession with honesty and ideals can definitely be compared with that of ex- American Idol judge Simon Cowell. His highly unrealistic view of how society should act, which obviously ends him up in troublesome predicaments, is not shared by Celimene. She is flirtacious, selfish, playful, and basically everything that Alceste detests. However, Alceste is doomed to ignore these traits and love her with no remorse.

Sean McNall (who played Alceste), was remarkable in his portrayal of a negative man angered by his peers. The words of resentment flowed seemlessly in prose, something which is hardly ever done in theatre anymore. The flamboyant Clitandre was portrayed by Patrick Halley, who was outstanding for his good sense of comic timing.

Of course, The Misanthrope was not an average show. The public is certainly not used to the classics because the classics are regarded as shows that cannot be related to. That was and will never be the case with any of Molière’s plays, especially with The Pearl Theatre at the helm.