The Imaginary Invalid Began Broadway Previews

The Molière adaptation directed by Brandon J. Dirden has kicked off its preview run at the Todd Haimes Theatre.

Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Comedy

Graphic illustration of velvet theater curtains pulled back to reveal a golden medical mask, evoking 17th-century satire.
Broadway's production of The Imaginary Invalid, adapted by Bill Irwin, officially began preview performances at the Todd Haimes Theatre in New York. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Broadway production of Molière's The Imaginary Invalid has officially begun preview performances. The comedic production, adapted by Bill Irwin and translated by Doug Skinner, is staged at Roundabout's Todd Haimes Theatre.

Why it matters

The production brings a classic Molière work back to the New York City stage through a modern lens. The show represents a collaborative effort by an ensemble cast and creative team to interpret the playwright's work for contemporary audiences.

The production schedule is confirmed to run for two months at the Todd Haimes Theatre. Previews commenced on September 25, 2026, leading up to an official opening date of October 22, 2026.

The players

Bill Irwin

He is an actor and playwright who adapted this version of the Molière play for the stage.

Brandon J. Dirden

He is the director responsible for the staging of this Broadway production.

Rachel Bloom

She is an actress and writer who is part of the ensemble cast for this production.

Brooks Ashmanskas

He is a veteran stage actor featured in the cast of this Molière adaptation.

The details

The play features a cast including Brooks Ashmanskas, Dylan Baker, Rachel Bloom, Hiram Delgado, Crystal A. Dickinson, Daniel Croix Henderson, Bill Irwin, and Ava Lalezarzadeh. Casting for the Broadway run was managed by Carrie Gardner, Stephen Kopel, and Jillian Cimini.

Timeline

  1. September 25, 2026: The production began previews.

  2. October 22, 2026: The play opens officially.

  3. November 22, 2026: The production ends.

Industry Dynamics

This production continues the trend of major New York City institutions prioritizing the adaptation of classic European comedies for Broadway audiences. It positions the Todd Haimes Theatre within the broader competitive landscape of high-profile theatrical revivals.

Theatergoers can now access preview performances at the Todd Haimes Theatre prior to the official October opening. Tickets remain available for the limited run concluding in late November.

The takeaway

Classic comedic works continue to be a staple of the Broadway season, requiring both skilled adaptation and an ensemble cast to resonate with modern viewers. Fans of Molière should plan to secure their seats before the limited run closes in November.

What happens next

The production will have its official opening night on October 22, 2026, followed by its final performance on November 22, 2026.

Further reading

Explore more classic adaptations and stage humor in our Comedy section.