Presented by Tea Tree Players
Reviewed 28 May 2019
No one could take this play seriously, which is fine because Ken Ludwig, the author, obviously intended to make us laugh. People in silly situations is Andrew Crayford’s forte, consequentially he is hilarious as lead actor George Hay who runs a Rep company with his wife Charlotte, played impeccably by Chris Galipo. This pair work well together and are experienced enough to milk every comic moment. Crayford’s drunk is physically challenging, perfectly timed and side splitting.
The rest of the cast provide stellar support, Cathie Olfield as Ethel, Charlotte’s mother and Stacey Murray as the couple’s daughter, Rosalind, complete this wacky family. It’s the 1950’s and they are no longer top billing; now playing in Buffalo with a cast of five they are desperate to have one last shot at stardom on the big screen! Frank Capra, famous director is coming to see their matinee and the rush to impress is on despite the relationship dramas.
Kieran Drost is wonderful as Howard, Rosalind’s current fiancé, especially when he gets mistaken for Capra! The company ingénue, Eileen, George’s dalliance, is played by Kahlia Feuerreiter, looking suitably apologetic, whilst Rosalind’s former boyfriend, Paul (still in love with her), is David Kinna. Meanwhile Charlotte is threatening to leave with George’s Lawyer, Richard, (Stephen Prior) who at times appears the only sane one.
The interesting set with multiple doors made it easy to follow the action even in the most confusing of moments and Jo Allenby’s direction kept it all under control (even Crayford’s extreme antics). This again is a comedy bordering on farce that this company does so well. Definitely recommended for a fun night out.
Reviewed by Fran Edwards
Twitter: @franeds
Venue: Tea Tree Players Theatre
Season: May 2019
Duration: 2 hr
Tickets:
$15 – $17
Bookings: www.teatreeplayers.com Box Office: 8289 5266 At the Theatre between 10am and 1pm Tuesdays and Thursdays
Ken Ludwig, Jo Allenby, Andrew Crayford, Chris Galipo, Cathie Oldfield, Stacey Murray, Kieran Drost, Kahlia Feuerreiter, David Kinna, Stephen Prior, Tea Tree Players, farce, comedy, theatre
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