L’Impromptu de Versailles

by Travis Rocha

Last week, I had callbacks, but I also had an audition for Moliere’s “L’Impromptu de Versailles.” It’s another student-directed play, independent of the director’s showcase, but still a part of Christopher Newport’s Theater Department. Going in to the audition, I honestly didn’t know what the play was about. I knew it was written in classical prose and so prepared a classical prose monologue, but outside of that I had no idea what I was getting myself into.

I went in for my audition, performed my monologue, and the director promptly gave me some sides as well as French lines to recite back to her. That’s when I began to question “wait, is this play in French?” The answer is yes… partially. I asked the director and she informed me that half of the play is in English and the other half is in French. We laughed and I admitted that I was a bit ill-informed. After all, I have absolutely no background in French. She reassured me that this was completely fine and I was given the part of La Grange! So, I am very pleased to announce that I have been given my first part at Christopher Newport. Since then, we’ve spent our rehearsal time researching our characters. The play is based on real people, so we can research not only through the script, but also online. It’s been very interesting delving into La Grange and learning what kind of person he was.

I’ve given quite a few looks at my French lines, but I need to coached a bit more so I can get the pronounciation down correctly. The show is on March 30, so there’s still plenty of time for me to learn everything. This week, we are beginning to work on blocking and memorization as opposed to research. We’re getting into the thick of it and that’s exactly what I want. I am beyond excited to be a part of this amazing opportunity with such a bright and talented cast.