BLACKPOOL actor Stephen Tompkinson's first show at the Grand is a comic tale of hypocrisy, greed and lust that succeeds on every level.

Stephen, who has never toured with a theatre company before, plays a preacher who appears to be a saint, but conceals some rather unholy desires of his own.

Simon Williams plays Orgon, a wealthy courtier who is totally taken in by Tartuffe's reputation, offers him his daughter's hand in marriage, leaves his estate to him - and then realises his huge mistake.

His acting pedigree on television is amazing, but to see him on stage is an enthralling experience - his total blindness to the scoundrel Tartuffe provides many humorous moments.

The other actors involved are all instantly recognisable; Philadelphia girl Ann Bryson is a revelation and Isla Blair cool and collected. Tam Williams could be seen in the BBC's Martin Chuzzlewit last year and Jack Ellis is a veteran TV actor, making several appearances in the gritty Prime Suspect series.

The audience is left in anticipation as Tartuffe doesn't appear in the first 40 minutes, but there can be no doubting his true character in a matter of minutes.

Anyone who has seen Drop the Dead Donkey on Channel Four will see some of scheming reporter Damien Day alive and well in Tartuffe.

In Moliere's day, many preachers were hypocritical con men who bear a striking resemblance to America's television evangelists of today, promising bibles, membership of a church and a one way ticket to heaven for just $395 or your money back.

Tartuffe is a superb production, by the Mobil Touring Theatre.

Fantastic sets, superb acting, and Moliere's comic wit will provide you with a fantastic night's entertainment.

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