Pif-Luisant: a successful tribute

DAY

Edmond Rostand would certainly appreciate the piece which imagines him trying to find the right vein to write his famous Cyrano de Bergerac .

Running at the Théâtre du Rideau Vert, this creation by Gabriel Sabourin marvelously combines the French language, feelings and humor while paying homage to this great French author and to his masterpiece.

The playwright, who also stars in this production as a jealous servant, had the flair to portray a Rostand overwhelmed by failure, at his family's country house at the end of the 19th century. The one whose childhood nickname was “Pif-Luisant” is thus in love with a maid, who fell in love with a greenhorn who doesn't have the words to conquer her.

From Cyrano to the full nose

The framework is largely modeled on that of Cyrano while of course having its particularities. The cast of this show is impeccable. Olivier Morin embodies with finesse and sensitivity a Rostand imbued with melancholy and the fear of rejection. His father, played by Roger La Rue, is all about confidence. Élodie Grenier radiates in the guise of this young woman in love with words that are the object of all desires, while Marie-Hélène Thibault plays the wife of the jealous servant. Finally, Jean-François Pronovost slips into the skin of the passionate novice, but without stature, who fell in love with the young lady. Very exaggerated, his character might have benefited from being a little less caricatural.

Rostand all in verse

These actors skilfully combine comedy and tragedy throughout this well-constructed story by Gabriel Sabourin. The playwright had the brilliant idea of ​​making Rostand speak in alexandrines. The student may not have surpassed the master, but the repartees he has laid are tasty while sticking perfectly to the identity of this author whom he admires. Good work.

Self-acceptance, having the courage of one's feelings and the ruthlessness of love are at the center of this successful proposal where the heart and the reason intertwine in a convincing way .

Pif-Luisant is presented until April 15 at the Théâtre du Rideau Vert.

• Pif-Luisant ★★★★☆

A play by Gabriel Sabourin

With Élodie Grenier, Roger La Rue, Olivier Morin, Jean-François Pronovost, Gabriel Sabourin and Marie-Hélène Thibault