Entertainment · October 23, 2026
A Sparkling ‘Imaginary Invalid,’ With Bill Irwin, Is the Cure for What Ails You
A new revival of Molière’s 'The Imaginary Invalid' has opened at the Todd Haimes Theatre on Broadway, featuring an adaptation by and starring Bill Irwin. The production, directed by Brandon J. Dirden and produced by the Roundabout Theatre Company, runs for 90 minutes without an intermission. While the play maintains its 17th-century French setting, critics noted a mix of period costumes with modern elements like a leather recliner and thematic nods to contemporary healthcare. Critical reception for the revival was sharply divided, ranging from high praise for Irwin's clowning to criticism of the production's pacing and lack of comedic impact.
Read the original coverage
A Sparkling ‘Imaginary Invalid,’ With Bill Irwin, Is the Cure for What Ails You
Read at The New York Times ↗- DeadlineTrade
'The Imaginary Invalid' Review: Molière Gets Clowned By A Winning Bill Irwin
Read at Deadline ↗ - New York PostTabloid
‘The Imaginary Invalid’ review: Unfunny Molière revival on Broadway makes you scream ‘Sacré bleu!’
Read at New York Post ↗
Reported by multiple outlets
- The production is a revival of Molière’s 1673 play 'The Imaginary Invalid'.
- Bill Irwin stars as Argan and also provided the adaptation for this version.
- The play is produced by the Roundabout Theatre Company at the Todd Haimes Theatre.
- The production is directed by Brandon J. Dirden.
- The show runs for approximately 90 minutes without an intermission.
- The story focuses on a hypochondriac father who is obsessed with medical procedures.
Reported by only some outlets
- The set features a La-Z-Boy-style brown leather recliner amidst 17th-century costumes.
- The adaptation includes critiques of modern-day American healthcare.
- The opening night for the production was Thursday, October 22, 2026.
Confirmed
- The production is a 90-minute adaptation of Molière’s 'The Imaginary Invalid' at the Todd Haimes Theatre.
- Bill Irwin is the star and the adapter.
- Brandon J. Dirden is the director.
Reported
- The audience sat in awkward silence with barely any chuckles. (New York Post)
- The play serves as a pointed critique of modern-day American healthcare. (Deadline)
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