By Betty Lou Roselle
The Iconic Our Town is the latest offering by the Colonial Playhouse. I remember seeing Thornton Wilder’s Pulitzer Prize winning play quite a few years ago nicely done. The first act is a little slow as it depicts the sleepy town of Grover’s Corners introducing us to the folks that live there. The next act builds the momentum with the lovely relationship of Emily and George and the third touches us with a surprising ending.
It was like seeing a whole different play under the excellent direction of Sam Barrett. Her cast does not contain one weak link from the leads to the smaller roles. I loved how she let the actors move on and off stage setting the different locations. Barrett also makes some really neat staging choices including having those who had passed seated in the front bathed in light during the final scene.
This production really hits all the right notes, not missing any nuances of an excellent script.
Gabrielle Affleck is stellar as the Stage Manager, sharing with us the hopes and dreams of the residents of this small town.
Bill King and Kathryn Leech turn in terrific performances as Mr. and Mrs. Webb. Kaitlin Healy shines as their daughter Emily as does Rich Szymczak as her future husband George Gibbs.
Dr. Gibbs (Steve Zimmerman) and Mrs. Gibbs (Kate Scanlon) are great as George’s parents. Marie Slaven as Rebecca Gibbs and Mitchell Lloyd as Wally Webb are a joy to watch.
David Cashell is wonderful in his dual roles as the choir director Simon Stimson and the milkman Howie Newsome (loved the hat!).
This superb cast also includes Sadie Boyle (Joe Crowell) , Stephanie Donahue (Professor Willard), Norma Kider (Mrs. Soames), Ed Chermol (Constable Warren), Meghan Mc Hugh (Si Crowell), Stephanie Donahue (Sam Craig) and Joe Stoddard (George Webster).
This is the perfect play for these times. In the crazy world we find ourselves in, this story reminds us how short life is. Our family and friends are what matters most.
Kudos to the entire production team including David Hutchman (Assistant to the Director) and Joanne Naughton (Stage Manager).
Don’t miss seeing this show! There are only five performances left on Sept. 29, 30, Oct. 1, 6 and 7.
Colonial Playhouse is at 522 West Magnolia Ave., Aldan, PA. Call 610-622-5773 or visit www.colonialplayhouse.net.