Classic Theatre of Maryland’s production of The Imaginary Invalid is a hilarious adaptation of Molière’s farce. Directed by Sally Boyett and performed in the courtyard of Reynolds Tavern, it is a delightful way to kick off the summer and Classic Theatre’s “Comedy in the Courtyard.”
Dexter Hamlett plays Argan, the title character, with obsession and cluelessness. A hypochondriac convinced he is seriously ill, he laments when a prescription drops to the ground, ringing furiously for his maid to retrieve it. He waves his cane at those dismissing his illnesses, while clueless about how his wife really feels about him, or who his daughter truly wishes to marry. In the end, he wails, thinking no one loves him, but then becomes excited when prompted by an unusual plan to have a doctor in the family.
Kristianna Pierre Dillworth brings a craftiness to Argan’s wife, Beline. She slyly manipulates him into making his will, claiming to be unconcerned with his money and its location, while confirming both with him. Wanting to put Argan’s daughter into a convent, she tries dissuading the suitor Argan has chosen, telling him the daughter is “cold” and uninterested. When Argan appears to be dead, she shows her true feelings, leaping for joy.
Daniella Canizales brings a youthful tearfulness to Argan’s daughter, Angelique. In love with another besides the one her father has chosen, she weeps and throws her hands into the air, fearing how her true love will react to this news. Thinking her father dead at one point, she cries again, lamenting her loss.
Brian Davis plays Angelique’s beloved Cleante with passion. Discovering she is to marry another, he comically tries to hide his anger, coming out in huffs. He desperately sings an opera with Angelique, a coded song that expresses his feelings and plans. As Argan’s doctor, Dr. Purgeon, he commands authority, favorably interpreting his nephew’s rough examination of Argan, and pronouncing doom when his patient fails to follow his orders.
Evan Leone brings comic awkwardness to Claude d’Aria, Argan’s proposed suitor for Angelique. Referring to himself in the third person, he tries to woo Angelique with odd phrases of love. He clumsily examines Argan, spinning the patient around in his chair. Surprised at Angelique’s disinterest in him, he clucks and waddles off. As a notary, he eagerly suggests ways of disposing of Argan’s money to avoid legal issues.
Nancy Krebs plays Argan’s maid, Toinette, with comic sass, speaking back to Argan with insults and deliberately mispronouncing Claude’s last name. She helps reveal Beline’s true feelings toward Argan and works to disrupt his marriage plans for Angelique. Her doctor disguise is hilarious, making up diagnoses on the fly and goose-stepping across the stage. She comically switches between doctor and Toinette, with a funnily flirtatious back-and-forth between them.
The costumes, designed by Sally Boyett, evoke Molière’s era while distinguishing each character. Argan wears a green robe and nightcap, while Angelique and Beline are in long dresses. Cleante first appears in a colorful cape and mask, hoping to disguise himself. Everything enhances the comedy, with funny use of the word “intercourse” and sound effects playing at mentions of Claude’s name and Argan’s wife. Toward the end of the first half, the actors sing to classical pieces and one Whitney Houston song. They constantly move around the stage, at times warily circling each other. They hit all the right comic moments, perfectly capturing the farce. It makes for a pleasantly humorous after-dinner show.
Running Time: 90 minutes including one 15-minute intermission.
The Imaginary Invalid plays select Tuesday evenings through August 26, 2025, presented by Classic Theatre of Maryland, performing in the outdoor beer garden of Reynolds Tavern – 7 Church Circle, Annapolis, MD. For tickets ($58–$85), call the box office at 410-415-3513 or purchase online. Food and drinks at Reynolds are not included in the ticket.