La Double Inconstance

The delightful Théâtre du Ranelagh in Paris is not afraid to put on classic plays, much to the delight of lovers of the genre, myself included. Yesterday, Marivaux's La Double Inconstance delighted me to no end, so natural and brilliant were the actors, and so beautiful was the French language of Marivaux, so marvellously subtle in describing the comings and goings of love. It's so good to hear, and it's such a good way to wash our ears of the daily mediocrity that so often prevails in the public arena and on television.

With very different acting styles depending on the characters and their own characters, the actors provided a sumptuous sample of classical theatre; the staging was remarkably effective, with a simple but ample set.

I don't think I'd ever seen this play, one of Marivaux's few well-known works, in the theatre, or if I had, I rediscovered it yesterday in all its modernity and cruelty. Unlike many of Marivaux's plays, in which the characters test each other before finally remaining faithful and in love, this is a play in which the couple unravels, without any apparent drama, but under the effect of the law of the strongest or richest, the prince who even takes the liberty of kidnapping the young woman he covets.

The staging emphasises the way in which, through simple play and defiance, the powerful set out to seduce naive young women. There are obviously modern resonances in this story.

A very fine show, which I highly recommend.

I haven't checked, but I think a few lines have been deleted to shorten the play a little, which at 1 hour 20 minutes is still perfectly within the grasp of our zapping century.

Magnificent play with a light staging (what a final send-off!!) and very fine acting by the cast. What rhythm! A talented troupe!

This joyful play is a delight. The actors, staging and costumes are sparkling and colourful. A marivaudage delight. A very fine evening.