By Tracy Hawkins
Kudos to Act II Playhouse for giving us a frothy light confection for the dog days of summer. “Boca” by Jessica Provenz is just the getaway you need when you can’t get away. Directed with a deft touch by Tony Braithwaite and performed by a wonderful cast seamlessly doubling up on parts, what’s not to like?
Tom Teti and Peter Schmitz in a scene from Act II’s “Boca”. Photos by Mark Garvin
Mary Martello (always a pleasure), Ellen Ratner, Penelope Reed, Peter Schmitz and Tom Teti bring authentic NY accents to a group of feisty retirees who are full of surprises. Peeking into the lives of the residents of the Boca Oasis Retirement Community, the show is a series of vignettes about long, loving marriages, lonely widows and widowers, and one couple whose loathing for one another is only surpassed by how funny they are in sniping at each other.
The play may deal with senior citizens, but is full of up-to-date references, including a hilarious Zoom call. Kudos to the cast for playing that scene with perfect timing.
Mary Martello and Penelope Reed in “Boca”.
The scenic design by Megan Jones conjures a Lily Pulitzer pastel paradise, highlighted beautifully by James Leitner’s lighting design. The costumes (Seana Benz) are exactly what you might expect to see on a sunny afternoon in Boca and allow the actors to move freely (and move they do!).
At a brisk 90 minutes with no intermission, and a refreshing cup of (theatrical) sorbet, it’s worth your time.
If you go: beware of “First Fridays” in Ambler, which closes the main drag and requires a little creativity in finding parking. Performances through Sept. 3, Wednesday-Saturday at 8 PM, matinees Sunday & Wednesday at 2 PM.
Act II Playhouse, 56 E. Butler Pike, Ambler, PA (Tickets at 215-654-0200 or www.act2.org).