By Tracy Hawkins
As Baby Boomers know, the Marx Brothers offered abundant laughs and enjoyment in the middle of the 20th Century, when it was sorely needed. Some would say we could use those laughs now, and you’ll get them at the Walnut Street Theatre, which is featuring Groucho: A Life in Revue through March 10.
Dreya Weber, Frank Ferrante, and Matt Roper in “Groucho A Life in Revue.” Photo by Mark Garvin.
Renowned actor Frank Ferrante, who stars as well as directs, takes us on the comedian’s life journey from poverty in Manhattan, to fame and fortune in Hollywood and around the world. The middle of five brothers who turned to vaudeville to survive, their story is charming and funny and poignant. Ably supported by Matt Roper, who portrays both Chico and Harpo, Mr. Ferrante conveys not just the comedy of Groucho’s life, but the love the brothers had for one another. Anyone who ever had a sibling (or wished they did) can appreciate the sweetness of this story, while enjoying the gentle humor. Dreya Weber heroically takes on all of the women in the Marx Brothers’ vaudeville acts and movies, as well as Groucho’s personal life.
Once again, Walnut Street Theatre puts on a production worthy of any high-end Broadway show. The scenic design by David P. Gordon is not only handsome but highly functional as it serves for every setting from a small bedroom to “Your Show of Shows.” The costumes designed by Debra Beaver Bauer also run the gamut from nightshirts to evening gowns and are period- and picture-perfect. Lighting (Matt DeMascolo) and Sound Design (Christopher Colucci) complement and highlight the action on stage wonderfully.
If you go: the show runs through March 10, and tickets are available at www.walnutstreettheatre.org. The show runs about 2:10 with one intermission.