In a comic whirlwind of high style, La Bête tells the story of Elomire, a 17th century French playwright, and his touring acting troupe who have come to lead the high life due to the patronage of the fickle Prince of Conti. Sparks fly when Valere, a swaggering braggart with delusions of artistic grandeur, becomes the Prince's choice to join Elomire's troupe. It is a battle of wits and witticisms as the two face off in David Hirson's outrageous commentary on the nature of art and the artist in society.
An L.A. Theatre Works full cast performance featuring:
Michael Cumpsty as Elomire
Jen Dede as Dorine
Alice Hirson as Madeline
John de Lancie as Prince
Matt Letscher as De Brie
Robert Machray as Bejart
Tom McGowan as Valere
Amy Pietz as Marquis-Therese
André Sogliuzzo as Du Parc
Sarah Zimmerman as Zimmerman
Includes an interview with playwright, David Hirson.
Directed by Kate McAll. Recorded before a live audience at The Invisible Studios, West Hollywood in January 2009.
Lead funding for La Bête was made possible with support from the Sidney E. Frank Foundation.