Majestic Theater, West Springfield, MA
through April 4, 2015
by Jennifer Curran
Lewis Black, the well-known comedian, whose penchant for
raw, angry, and political stand-up is well-known, has crafted a Neil Simon
homage with not one sharp edge. Steeped in nostalgia, topped with some great
early 80’s music, and a lot of door banging slapstick, “One Slight Hitch” is a
very funny play.
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| Photo by Lee Chambers |
In a well-appointed suburban home in Cincinnati, Doc
(Anderson Matthews) and his wife Delia (Rebecca Nelson), are gearing up for
their eldest daughter Courtney’s wedding to straight laced, overly wholesome Harper.
One slight hitch has led Courtney’s ex-boyfriend Ryan into the midst of the
action. Unwelcome and uninvited, the wandering writer Ryan (Ryan McCarthy) brings
to light the deep dysfunction, the tight bonds, and the alcoholism abundant in
middle America.
The standout performances here belong to Emery Henderson as
P.B., the eternal little sister, and the previously mentioned Anderson
Matthews. Henderson is a light on the stage and her moments of nostalgia are
truly golden. She flits and dances like a real life Rainbow Brite, entirely
endearing and never too sweet. Matthews’ Doc, the beleaguered father of three
daughters, is hilariously intoxicated throughout, yet manages to stay on just
the right side of ridiculous. The audience roots for this crazy family from
lights up. Special mention here goes to Ashley Malloy and her wickedly fun turn
as the errant rebel Melanie. She is the reason all that light doesn’t get too
blinding.
Rand Foerster’s direction brings out the best in the script
and avoids getting too sticky-sweet in key moments, of which there could have
been one too many.
“One Slight Hitch” recalls the classic American play. One
set, one story, and one very big heart beats to songs somehow now three decades
past.
