(1997 - 2007)
In "Um Molière Imaginário" Grupo Galpão was once again directed by one of their members, this time actor Eduardo Moreira. The text was written by the dramaturge Cacá Brandão based on improvisations by the cast. The play features Molière’s "The Imaginary Invalid" against a background that reflects on the nature and the function of Theater and pays homage to the most important comic playwright of all times.
In this background there appears the Queen Mab from Mercutio’s speech in Shakespeare’s "Romeo and Juliet." Queen Mab introduces the oneiric into the performance and through the world of dreams brings Molière himself back from the grave where he has lied for more than three hundred years. This is a Molière that bears striking similarities with Machado de Assis and he is given back his voice and his dignity, outraged by a humiliating burial. Framed within is the story of Argan, Molière’s last creation.
Avaricious and hypochondriac, Argan intends to marry his only daughter to a feeble minded mediocre young man in order to have a doctor in the family. Nevertheless he has to face opposition from his greedy second wife and from his daughter, who is in love with another man. Argan also has to battle his brother’s sensible arguments and specially Nieta, his faithful servant, cleverly plotting to help Argan’s daughter. Making use of comedy Molière unveils social hypocrisy and the abuses from the medical profession.
The production is faithful to Molière’s satirical comedy. The irreverence that has become a hallmark of Grupo Galpão is balanced with lyricism in the entr’actes. This perfect combination also relies on a soundtrack that ranges from operas to boleros, all exquisitely performed live by the actors themselves. Fernando Muzzi wrote the songs and the music for the entr’actes and Ernani Malleta wrote the opera sung by the youngsters in love.
Staged for outdoor performances, "Um Molière Imaginário" was later also adapted to theaters, clubs and gymnasiums. The production needs to be performed at time so that the lighting effects can be enjoyed to the fullest.