Candide at Poche-Montparnasse
- PARIS (AP) — didier LongS staging of Voltaire's "Candide," currently at the Pocket-Montparnasse theater, offers a fresh look at the classic tale, with Charles Templon delivering a compelling...
- The play opens in Westphalia, within the walls of the most magnificent castle imaginable.
- An unexpected encounter between Pangloss and the baroness leads to Cunégonde,played by Cassandre Vittu de Keraoul,declaring Candide as The cause of my effects.
Charles Templon Shines as Candide in Pocket-Montparnasse Production
Table of Contents
- Charles Templon Shines as Candide in Pocket-Montparnasse Production
- Charles templon Shines as Candide: A Q&A About the Pocket-Montparnasse Production
- What is the play “Candide” about?
- Where is the play currently showing?
- Who stars in the production?
- What is unique about Charles Templon’s portrayal of Candide?
- What are the key themes explored in this production of “Candide”?
- How does this production address social inequality and greed?
- How does the staging contribute to the play’s impact?
- Who is Cassandre Vittu de Keraoul’s role?
- What is the role of Pangloss and who plays him?
- What time and days is “Candide or Optimism” playing?
- Key Aspects of the Play Summarized
PARIS (AP) — didier LongS staging of Voltaire’s “Candide,” currently at the Pocket-Montparnasse theater, offers a fresh look at the classic tale, with Charles Templon delivering a compelling performance as the titular character.
The play opens in Westphalia, within the walls of the most magnificent castle imaginable. Templon’s Candide observes the life around him: Baron Thunder-Vet-Tronckh constantly boasts of his wealth, while the baroness revels in her own self-importance. their daughter, Cunégonde, portrayed as a curious and innocent young woman, has a brother whose connection to their noble lineage is emphasized. Candide is deeply in love with Cunégonde. The two are students of Pangloss, the tutor, who instructs them in “metaphysico-theological-cosmolonigology,” asserting that Everything is for the best in the best of all possible worlds; there is no effect without a cause,
and that God orchestrates all causes and effects.
An unexpected encounter between Pangloss and the baroness leads to Cunégonde,played by Cassandre Vittu de Keraoul,declaring Candide as The cause of my effects.
Their ensuing antics provoke the baron’s wrath, resulting in Candide’s expulsion from the castle.
Long’s production utilizes simple yet effective staging. Wooden panels serve multiple purposes, representing walls, street scenes, and even postcards.A painted backdrop suggests the sky, while a central post transforms into various objects, including an execution post, a ship mast, and a barrier separating Candide and Cunégonde.
Innocence Confronts the World
Templon’s portrayal of Candide evokes both Peter Pan and the Little Prince. He maintains a youthful innocence that gradually evolves as he journeys through the world, encountering diverse perspectives on humanity. His quest for Cunégonde remains constant, seeing her in every woman he meets. Vittu de Keraoul embodies all the female characters, and some male ones, adding to the play’s dynamic nature. Sylvain Katan provides comedic relief as Pangloss,a Bulgarian guard,and Martin,a Dutch bookseller.
The play remains remarkably relevant, addressing themes of social inequality, greed, and courage. Voltaire’s original text questions social relationships, depicting Men are insects devouring each other,
and challenges the pursuit of wealth, stating, I do not understand the desire to always have more of these false values which misleaded the real riches.
It also explores loyalty to loved ones and homeland. Candide’s journey is brought to life on stage, showcasing his ability to learn and grow from each encounter.
Candide or Optimism, directed by Didier Long, is playing at the Pocket-Montparnasse Theater (Paris, 6th) Tuesdays through Saturdays at 9 p.m. and Sundays at 5 p.m.until May 4.
Charles templon Shines as Candide: A Q&A About the Pocket-Montparnasse Production
What is the play “Candide” about?
The play “candide” is based on Voltaire’s satirical novella,which chronicles the adventures of the titular character,candide. He embarks on a long journey, encountering various trials and tribulations, all while maintaining a belief in optimism despite the world’s harsh realities.
Where is the play currently showing?
The current production of “Candide,” directed by Didier Long, is playing at the Pocket-Montparnasse Theater in Paris (6th arrondissement).
Who stars in the production?
charles Templon plays the lead role of Candide. Cassandre Vittu de Keraoul embodies all the female characters, and some male characters. Sylvain Katan provides comedic relief.
What is unique about Charles Templon’s portrayal of Candide?
Templon’s portrayal of Candide is said to evoke both Peter Pan and the Little Prince. He conveys a youthful innocence that evolves as Candide journeys and experiences the world’s multifaceted nature.
What are the key themes explored in this production of “Candide”?
The play delves into several key themes, including:
- Social inequality
- Greed
- Courage
- Loyalty to loved ones
- Loyalty to homeland
The play references Voltaire’s original text, which directly critiques societal structures. It presents the idea that people often prey on each other and challenges the excessive desire for wealth. The text states, Men are insects devouring each other,
and questions the pursuit of wealth, stating, I do not understand the desire to always have more of these false values which misleaded the real riches.
How does the staging contribute to the play’s impact?
The production uses simple yet effective staging. Wooden panels serve multiple purposes, representing various settings such as walls and street scenes. A painted backdrop suggests the sky, and a central post transforms to represent an execution post, a ship mast, and a barrier.
Who is Cassandre Vittu de Keraoul’s role?
Cassandre Vittu de Keraoul embodies multiple characters, playing all the female characters and some male ones. This adds a dynamic layer to the play.
What is the role of Pangloss and who plays him?
Pangloss, the tutor, is played by Sylvain Katan. Katan provides comedic relief in this production.
What time and days is “Candide or Optimism” playing?
The play runs Tuesdays through Saturdays at 9 p.m. and Sundays at 5 p.m. until May 4, as stated in the article. It is recommended to verify showtimes closer to the date.
Key Aspects of the Play Summarized
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Setting | Westphalia,and various locations during Candide’s journey |
| Main Character | Candide (played by charles Templon) |
| Director | Didier Long |
| Main themes | Social inequality,greed,courage,loyalty |
| Key Characters | Candide,Cunégonde,Pangloss,Martin |
| Location | Pocket-Montparnasse Theater,Paris (6th) |