Although the piece is still relevant because of its critique of toxic masculinity A very beautiful, very sad role presented at the Théâtre du Rideau Vert struggles to find its tone 45 years after its creation.
This work by Jeanne-Mance Delisle, awarded after its publication in 1978, tells of the setbacks of a poor family from Abitibi in the 1950s who have to endure the tyranny of an alcoholic father who stares at one of his daughters.
The patriarch, played by Frédéric Boivin, makes advances towards his older sister, wonderfully played by Sarah Laurendeau. The two youngest sisters, played by Ève Duranceau and Gabrielle Lessard, disapprove of their father’s behavior, who spends his money on vice without putting food on the table.
As his nickname suggests, Ti-Fou, the only son in the household, suffers from a cognitive developmental disorder. He imitates his father’s violence.
Finally, Nathalie Mallette provides a masterful presence in the role of the mother who, with just a few words, masters the excesses of her husband and the twisted behavior of her eldest and her son.
A difficult first part
Despite Marc Beland’s honest production, the first half of the show lacks naturalness and realism. The plot is not very subtle. The arrival of the brother-in-law (Benoît Mauffette) and a change in the situation are not convincing.
However, it is a shocking personal conversation between father and mother that shocks the public. The two parents open their hearts, revealing the gulf that separates them. Nathalie Mallette’s talent shines through in this powerful exchange.
The final scenes are better, including the ending, which highlights incest as a social defect.
This often rough text is characterized by powerful language and deals with difficult and sensitive topics. It shows the power that women can have in the face of oppression despite their enslavement. However, the awkward interactions between certain characters cause the story to lack bite.
Un reel beau, ben sad is being performed at the Théâtre du Rideau Vert until October 28th.
A very beautiful, very sad role ★★★☆☆
Director: Marc Beland
With Frédéric Boivin, Sarah Laurendeau, Ève Duranceau and Nathalie Mallette