Moliere is said to have reinvented comedy in 17th century France, blending farce and satire into a wonderfully wicked theatrical cocktail. The Misanthrope, written in 1666, is about Alceste, a man who vows to speak and act with complete honesty. This will not be as easy — or as noble — as it seems.

Owen Schaub directs the Butler Theatre production, which features original period-style choreography by Derek Reid and original music composed and performed by Amy Dolphin, inspired by Lully, a leading French composer who was a friend of Moliere’s.

The Misanthrope plays Feb. 28-March 4 in Lilly Hall Studio Theatre 161. Show times are 8 p.m. Feb. 28-March 3, with 2 p.m. matinees March 3-4. Tickets are $10, $5 for students and seniors. They’re available by calling 317-940-9247 or online at www.butler.edu/theatre/current.aspx.