By Betty Lou Roselle
A gem of a play is on the boards at Colonial Playhouse. It is a very well-written comedy with plenty of heart by Julie Zaffarano. Zaffarano also directs a great cast that finds all the laughs as well as the softer moments.
Ruth Brittain and Richard Szymczak in “The PlayMakers” written and directed by Julie Zaffarano at Colonial Playhouse.
Suzanne Hall and Dave Zaffarano create the world of the play with one of the best set designs of the season.
The playmakers are Lisa and Sebastian, a team who collaborated on a few successful romantic comedies. We learn that they have a history between them but have not seen each other for a number of years. Sebastian is hoping they can work together again to create that magic.
Jess Bye Stinson is terrific as Lisa. She completely inhabits the character, keeping Sebastian at arm’s length. John Paul Cappiello is wonderful as Sebastian. His passion for the meaning of words provides quite a few laughs. There is nice chemistry between these two which keeps us rooting for them.
Sebastian (John Paul Cappielo) and Lisa (Jess Bye Stinson).
As Lisa and Sebastian create their characters for the play, they come alive speaking the lines the playwrights give them.
Ruth Brittain is super as Kate/Loraine moving flawlessly from one character to the next (I love her grandma). Ken Locicero as Jonathan/Jack matches her skill.
Hannah Pearsall and Rich Szymczak are laugh-out-loud fun.
The excellent production staff includes Dave Zaffarano (Assistant to the Director), Sharon Kolankiewicz (Stage Manager), Nick Squeri (Assistant Stage Manager), Ron Hill and Nance Reeves (Lighting and Sound Design and Operator). This is a top-notch production, don’t miss it! There are only six performances left: March 21, 22, 23, 28, 29 and 30.
Colonial Playhouse is at 522 West Magnolia Ave., Aldan, PA. Call 610-622-5773 or visit www.colonialplayhouse.net.