Theatre Guild of Hampden, Hampden, MA
through May 7, 2017
by Stuart W. Gamble
Terrence McNally's comedy “It’s Only A Play” was originally produced in the
mid-eighties. In many cases, comedy does not age well. Not so in the current
spring production of TGH’s “It’s Only A Play.” Much of its dialogue is peppered
with current cultural references including selfies, text messages, even Lady
Gaga, keeping the show fresh and funny. Another fitting update: the show opens
with Irving Berlin’s “There’s No Business Like Show Business” and closes with
Stephen Schwartz’ “Defying Gravity,” both iconic tunes about resilience.
McNally’s premise is this: On the opening night of the new
play “The Golden Egg,” various characters gather in the penthouse of the show’s
producer, anxiously awaiting the first reviews via text messages and phone
calls. Those holed up in the apartment include the show’s producer, the
extremely rich, yet bubble-headed Julia Budder (Diane Flynn); volatile
playwright Peter Austin (Joe Varney); ultra-diva Virginia Noyes (Jeanne
Wysocki); wise-cracking best friend of the playwright James Wicker (Brad
Shepard); mad hatter of a director Sir Frank Finger (Chris Rojas); acerbic
critic Ira Drew (Rich Rubin); and naïve coat room attendant Gus P. Head (Kellum
Ledwith).
The entire ensemble of the show works very well together, as
directed by TGH Artistic Director Mark Giza, especially in scenes where their
unified reaction to events is essential. Standouts in this ensemble include:
Jeanne Wysocki as the egomaniacal Virginia Noyes whose pill popping and F-bomb
dropping keep the audience in stitches, Chris Rojas’ truly bizarre
interpretation of the neurotic director, the always reliable Brad Shepard whose
comic timing is faster than a Google search, and Kellum Ledwith’s star struck
aspiring actor.
Other notable aspects of this production include Louise
Gaito and Mark Giza’s elegant evening wear costumes, replete with sparkling
silver and black gowns and purses, tuxedos, and the comically ill-fitting
toupee sported by critic Ira Drew. Special credit should be given to the little
dog whose photo adorns the program and steals the show at curtain call.
