CLEVELAND WILL NEVER BE THE SAME
Slamming doors can be so invigorating. It is especially so when integrated into a high calibre farce. Certainly one of the champions of this genre in our country has to be Ken Ludwig’s LEND ME A TENOR which lovingly satirizes the opera world in the hinterlands of Cleveland, Ohio. VANGUARD presents a new production of this gem currently on the boards at WESTMINSTER THEATRE in Point Loma thru March 25.
Director John Spafford pulls out all the doorstops in staging this whirlwind exercise in desperation. “Maggie Saunders” (Ashley Stewart) is desperate to meet the world famous tenor “Tito Merelli” (Don Evans). Her father “Henry Saunders” (Adam Sheldon), the Manager of the Cleveland Grand Opera Co., seems desperate to strengthen the reputation of his “baby” through whatever means necessary. Even “Max” (Sean Doughty), Saunders’ assistant, desperately wishes to marry the boss’ daughter.
If the reader theorizes that the above examples conclude the desperation evident in this uproarious script, then think again. “Diana” (Connie Gonzales), the soprano diva in the production, reveals desperation as she yearns for that “one word” from the opera star that would catapult her career into high gear.
Then there exists the obvious desperation to mingle with the great Tito Merelli shared by the “bellhop* (Will McTaggart) and the Chair of the Opera Guild, “Julia Leverette” (Diane Neil). Who wouldn’t be determined to hobnob with such an acclaimed star who chooses to wade through the wasteland of Cleveland? Even Maria Merelli (Lisa Allison), Tito’s wife, desperately seeks his commitment in the bedroom. The competing attentions herald the organized chaos that dominates the proceedings.
Adam Parrocha’s inspired set design masterfully contributes to the comedy that flourishes throughout these goings-on. A 1930’s hotel suite struts its stuff winningly as a representation of Cleveland’s societal aspirations.
Messrs. Evans, Doughty and Sheldon form the core of this play’s potential and its challenges on the road to the gift of applause. With many tools at their disposal, this triumvirate of accomplished actors relies on panic, surprise and the press of time to thrillingly cavort in and out of the action. I do wish, though, that there were fewer examples of huffing, puffing, harrumphing and other varied exhalations of air along the way. To this member of the audience, it reads as too much, too often. What’s required is a more measured, quiet desperation relying on other techniques such as facial expressions, body positioning, etc.
The other cast members largely succeed with their intermittent, frenetic intrusions as well. Especially notable is the “Diana” of Connie Gonzales who absolutely nails the voluptuous, divalicious antics expected of one who has uncontrollable operatic intentions.
In addition to Mr. Parrocha’s aforementioned major role in this production, the other mainstays on the technical team deserve credit as well. In particular, the costumes of Connie Gonzales pompously advertise the milieu. Likewise, Santiago Venegas lights the action with distinction.
The word on the street is that VANGUARD, under the artistic leadership of Don Evans, harbors healthy aspirations for theatre in Point Loma. The WESTMINSTER THEATRE offers pleasant surroundings and a nicely designed, comfortable environment for the Theatre Arts.
Consider a trip to this coastal community for a high velocity performance. Any regular theatregoer worth his salt must experience the hilarity of LEND ME A TENOR.
Theatre Curtain Calling…Reviewing the Situation
