Scatological humor and a splendid cast make Invalid memorable

Scatological humor and a splendid cast make Invalid memorable

by Rajkhet Dirzhud-Rashid - SGN A&E Writer THE IMAGINARY INVALID DIRECTED BY DAVID SCHWEIZER STARRING IAN BELL, JULIE BRISKMAN, DAVID PICHETTE, BRADFORD FARWELL, ALICE PLAYTEN, ROCCO SISTO, ANDREW WILLIAM SMITH, ZOE WINTERS, BRANDON WHITEHEAD FEBRUARY 21 - MARCH 22 SEATTLE REPERTORY THEATRE I'll shamelessly admit that I loved the old Benny Hill comedy series, which featured Mr. Hill and various other Brit comedy artists in very silly skits that ranged from a little bawdy to downright raucous. So now you know I have a definite bent toward that which is silly and fun just for fun's sake. That being acknowledged, I'll say I was probably one of the audience members laughing the loudest (and most - which seemed to annoy my seatmate next to me, a woman who seemed very tightly wound) at Moliere's very silly comedy, The Imaginary Invalid. In fact, I have to say that out of all of the plays I've attended this year and last at The Rep, I'd say this was one of the few I liked without any reservations at all. Playing the hypochondriac and overly-flatulent Argan, Rocco Sisto brings a whole new light to fart jokes, and is so funny as he milks every whoopee cushion sound that I nearly hurt myself slapping my knees laughing. These jokes are the running fixture in this play, so be warned: If this isn't your cup of tea, then this isn't a play for you. However, if twisted identities, an evil second wife (the elegantly funny Julie Briskman), and scatterbrained lovers tickle you, then The Imaginary Invalid will have you in stitches. Also adding to the merriment is the revolving set, which looks like a giant candy box filled with some pretty nutty characters. This - and the glorious, glittery ending, where the whole cast sings a bunch of zany quips and quotes in Latin to give the hypochondriac a ceremony which bestows upon his head the post of "doctor" - is worth the price of a ticket to this hilariously witty and silly play. Just do keep in mind, if Benny Hill, or Mr. Bean made you wince, this play will annoy the heck out of you, but if you need some cheer and have an open mind, this one is just what the doctor ordered. For more information on times and ticket prices, go to: 206-443-2222, or go online to www.seattlerep.org.