Leeds Art Council Theatre Reviews Archive
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The Odd Couple (Female Version) March 20-30 –
Leeds Arts Council Reviewed March
30, 2008 by Angie McGowan I must say that the Leeds Arts Council's production of The Odd Couple (Female Version) was truly a hysterical treat. I would not have expected less from this very talented cast under the direction of Clay Boyce. Kim Dometrovich and Krissy Warren kept the audience in stitches as Florence and Olive. These two actresses work so well with one another, and their comedic timing is spot on! They were so funny, and made the roles seem natural and flawless. Great job! I must also say, although this play is the "female version," William Brisky and Ron Dometrovich happened to be the icing on the cake as the two "Spanish hunks," who also live in the same building as Florence and Olive. When these two came to visit, bringing "no-good" candy, I laughed until I hurt. Great job! Karen Carroll, Kristin Johnson, Allison Whitehead Kilgore, and Julie Bryant Hein round off this amazing cast as the hilarious men-loving, gossip spreading, Trivial Pursuit-playing, problem solvers who are the best friends of Florence and Olive. Everyone involved in this production gave us an amazingly professional show. May we have an encore? I am quite sure there are several people who sadly missed out on this brilliant Neil Simon comedy. |
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The Odd Couple (Female Version) March 20-30 –
Leeds Arts Council Reviewed March
25, 2008 by Robert Cole When Mike Nichols’ legendary Broadway premiere of Neil
Simon’s classic comedy of The Odd Couple opened in New York in 1965, critics
and audiences alike were slack-jawed at such brilliant moments as the opening
poker scene and the opening of Act III when Felix and Oscar tore each other
down for their individual eccentricities. The characters of Felix and Oscar
then entered our imaginations and have been through two motion pictures (including
a mindless, mind-numbing sequel), a long-running television show, a
short-running all African-American cast television show, and even an animated
series where Felix and Oscar were drawn as a cat and dog. So, maybe the fact
that there was a female version wasn’t the strangest incarnation. In 1985, director Jerry Zaks
and Simon re-wrote the play for the new characters of Olive and Florence. The
Broadway run was very successful, starring Rita Moreno and Sally Struthers
and the Broadway debut of Tony Shalhoub (of Monk fame). It is this version
that is now currently running at the Leeds Arts Council. It is to the credit of director
A. Clay Boyce and his energetic cast that the audience never stopped
laughing. Simon’s feminine version can be pretty tacky. Retaining the 1980’s
setting, you will get to hear Olivia Newton-John’s “(Let’s Get) Physical” and
“867-5309” and other New Wave classics (?) and some of the poor cast members
are given proper Steel Magnolias hairdos. In the female version of the
story, Olive Madison (played by Krissy Warren) is not so much turned into a
female as she is the original “Oscar” in a dress, though Kim Dometrovich’s
“Flo” Ungar comes off much better as a legitimate character. The highlight of
the evening is the two Costazuela brothers and their failed date with Oscar
and Flo. You are likely to laugh yourself silly and have lots of fun. The
female version of The Odd Couple is more of a parody of the original than a
good translation, but that is Neil Simon’s fault and not the fault of this
very funny production. The Odd Couple (Female Version)
runs at the Leeds Arts Council March 20-22 and 27-29 at 7:30pm and March 22,
29, and 30 at 2:30. |
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The Mousetrap Presented by Reviewed for October 20, 2007 by Joshua Jackson Mousetrap is the current murder mystery being presented by the Leeds Arts Council. The show is one of the longest running plays in history, according to the beginning announcements. By the way, note to this theatre, the announcements seem to be too long and not what I came to see. This show has never been made into a movie or seen on television, so there is no way to compare this to any other version, except for other theatre company versions. Since, I have never seen the show before I was ready to see what it was all about. I must say when attempting to do a show
set in The show has strengths and that is mainly in the wonderful supporting cast. The supporting characters give this show the life it desperately needs. Capers Doss as “Paravicini” is very comical and enjoyable to watch on stage. Donna Williamson as “Miss. Boyle” is exactly what her character calls for, mean spirited, and she does a wonderful job of making you hate her. Cliff Keen Jr. as “Christopher Wren” is definitely a wonderful character. Not only a great accent but the depth and charisma he has makes him a scene stealer. Todd Ponder as “Trotter” is great. Nice character and another accent that is very authentic. The cast is rounded out by Jim Ruth and Sheryl Tucker, who are very believable as their characters and add a sense of realism to the show. But, when the stage is filled with Doss, Keen, and Ponder you can feel the magic. Though the supporting cast is solid, I found the leading roles by Angie McGowan and William Brisky to be hollow and empty. We are supposed to believe they are a married couple, well, I didn’t. The only seen between them with any sort of “real” emotion is the fight scene and that even felt forced by Brisky. I never found the depth or the emotional attachment to their characters. I am not sure if the director, Shari Olm, did this on purpose or if the show was cast improperly. But, it is the major issue I have with the show. When the other characters come on stage they seem to fade into the background. The attempt is nice, but not complete. The Mousetrap was thoroughly enjoyed by the crowd who came to see it. The script is wonderful and tells a very interesting tale. This is a dinner theatre with “Traditional English Dinner” which by the way is served on plastic ware. They should really look into getting some china for a real dinner theatre feel. Some ambience would be appreciated. The show runs October 27, 28, and 29. If you are looking for an enjoyable way to spend the evening with friends I would recommend the Mousetrap. With its faults, it still turns out alright and it will keep you guessing until the end. |
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Father of the
Bride Presented by Reviewed for
April 27, 2007 by Justin Taylor The Leeds Arts Council has another winner on its hands with its current production of “Father of the Bride”. Nothing like the movies that came out in the 1990’s, the story is a heartwarming, funny, and moving tale of a father dealing with his only daughter suddenly announcing she is getting married. The family then deals with all the struggles and the roller-coaster that is planning a wedding. Clifton Keen is
wonderfully cast as the Father of the Bride.
Though he is young looking, you forget that almost instantly as he
takes command of the stage and every scene he is in. His timing, energy, and
wonderful acting are always a joy to watch. Every time he is on stage, he
raises the actors around him up a notch. He has a wonderful partner with
Donna Love as the Mother of the Bride, Ellie Banks. She has wonderful moments
on stage and comedic timing is dazzling. She definitely acts as any mother
would. One most point out that the chemistry between Crystal
Chappell as Kay, the bride is beautifully cast. She is a joy to watch on
stage and definitely proves why she is such a great actress with this part.
She embodies the bride to be and gives a full range of emotion with
believability and elegance. Brett Trimble is Buckley, the groom to be, acts
wonderfully with Matt Mitchell
and Darrien Hess as the two sons have some wonderful moments in the show.
Lynne Long as Miss. Bellamy is a riot. A wonderful actress and she definitely
has a scene stealing moment, if not show stealing moment in the show! Two
words – Loved her! Emily Lunsford as Peggy is funny and touching. Nice moment
with the The set, by Shari Olm, was nice but, I would have preferred for there to be more items on stage for a more realistic looking home. I think Rick
Partain has put together a good show. Some great actors, nice set, some
technical problems with sounds and lights, but nothing that distracts from
the show. The audience thoroughly enjoyed the production the night I attended
and I can safely say, Bravo! Bravo! |
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Father of the
Bride Presented by Reviewed for Friday night’s debut performance of Father of the Bride was truly a delightful pleasure to witness. The play opened with the Banks family having a typical 1950s breakfast when daughter, Kay, (Crystal Chappel) announces her marriage intentions to suitor Buckley Dunstan (Brett Trimble). This immediately starts the ball rolling for two hours of rollicking laughs and hilarious good times. After making his protests known, the father of the bride (Cliff Keen) all but goes into a total nervous breakdown as he and his whole family are thrown into one wacky situation after another, dealing with characters such as the overworked secretary (Lynne Long) who is convinced that the Banks family is out to get her by constantly changing the guest list behind her back. Despite his very youthful appearance, Cliff Keen did an outstanding job representing the father of the bride. His talent and acting skills clearly showed that he was the right person for this role. He obviously has a lot of experience in the entertainment field. Crystal Chappel was a joy to watch as the bride. She carried herself in a very delightful manner and interacted with her fellow cast members wonderfully. Donna Love as Mrs. Banks was another great talent to watch. One minute she was a typical 1950s TV happy go lucky housewife and mother, the next she could be very stern with her husband and children, especially when it came to the condition of their clothing. I only wish she had stood up more to Mr. Banks whenever he was on one of his rants. It gave the appearance that she and her whole family were deathly afraid of the man. Matt Mitchell and Darien Hess were very realistic as Kay’s two younger brothers. The way they interacted with each other would make anyone believe they really were siblings. Although his character lacked sincerity at times, Brett Trimble as Buckley Dunstan had some very funny moments. Lynne Long (Mr. Banks’ secretary) gave one of the most hilarious performances of the entire play. She truly looked to be at her wits ends trying to figure out how so many people that were intended for “church only” snuck back into the house “while her back was turned!” Another great performance came from Danny White as Massoula, the wedding planner. From the moment he walked into the room, people started laughing. His over the top flaming, flamboyant character was not to be believed. It was perfectly countered by the hilarious comedic talents of William Brisky (Massoula’s circulation manager), who insisted that the Banks home was a death trap and the party guests would be “squashed like bugs!” if they tried to fit them all in the Banks’ home. Many other great moments came from smaller characters, such as “The woman from Tim’s flower shop” played by Allison Hall. Her interaction with the outraged father and frustrated circulation manager were hysterical. Terry Newman and Stephen Lunsford both did great jobs as the furniture movers. Their tipsy manner and onstage antics were, as the father put it, “like watching the three stooges!” Other briefly seen characters, such as Ben Banks’ (Matt Mitchell) fiancé Peggy (Emily Lunsford,) were a delight to see. Jacob Meyers and Margarita Lunsford as Tommy’s friend Buzz and Kay’s dress designer were both effective in their roles. Katy Walker, as Delilah the maid, gave a stellar performance as well. This delightful comedy didn’t end with the play itself. Immediately after their performance, the whole cast carried their characters over into a wedding reception that the entire audience was invited to participate in. It was truly a wonderful evening of madness and mayhem that I will never forget. Take my
advice and see this comedy while you have a chance. There will be three more
performances. Friday and Saturday, May 4th and 5th at |
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Rehearsal for Murder Reviewed on
November 3, 2006 by Justin Taylor “It all begins with the words.” That is a wonderful line from the new Leeds Arts Council production of “Rehearsal for Murder” now playing and serves as a fitting representation of a fantastic play. The basic premise is simple. It is a Broadway opening night and the play in question has opened to mixed reviews. The lead actress has committed suicide over the show. Or has she? The playwright believes it was murder and hence the show begins. Donna Williamson, in her directorial debut, has done her most important job here, casting wonderfully talented actors. She has put together a solid show and shows great promise as a director. Though one must point out there were some problems with lighting cues and prop handling, but, minor ones, which in no way effect the overall performance. The cast is stellar. Starting with the leading man, Cliff Keen as Alex Dennison. Cliff brings a calmness and wonderful charisma to the role. He runs the gamut of emotions with ease and believability. He has to carry the show on his shoulders and does so beautifully. In particular, are his wonderful flashback sequences, he changes emotion wonderfully, that he immediately draws you into the show. Once that happens, there is no turning back. Hannah Wilkerson plays Monica Welles, the heroine and subsequently the victim. Her ability is extraordinary and the grace and style she brings to the stage are a welcome addition to this production. Not only a stunning beauty on the outside but, the emotion evoked, again, draws you into the show. Her relationship with Alex is clear and evident. You really believe they are a couple, which is refreshing to see. The cast as an ensemble is
strong. The scenes involving all of
them are engaging and wonderfully acted.
Shari Olm, a regular on the Emily Lunsford as Sally Bean is wonderful and brings a nice energy to her role. Michael Lunsford is also a welcome addition to the production and again brings his enormous talent to his role. So, who did it? You will have to come to the show to find out. I have attended many productions at the Leeds Art Council and this is by far one of the very best. Beautifully cast, wonderfully acted, correctly directed, and it will leave you wanting more. I encourage all of you to SEE this show! There are three more performances
of the show. Friday and Saturday,
November 10, 11, at 6:30 for the dinner theatre and 7:30 for the show and
Sunday, November 12, at 2:00 p.m. for dessert and 2:30 for the show. For more information contact the Leeds Art
Council at 699-1892. |
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Rumors , Reviewed on
April 26, 2006 by Tonya Bussey The latest production
from the Leeds Arts Council is yet another community theater success. With direction from Shari Olm, the players
did an excellent job with Neil Simon's comedy. Gerry Rose nearly stole the show with
his performance as Lenny Ganz. From his hysterical pratfalls to the delivery
of his lines, he gave an enjoyable and energetic performance. Gerry plans to pursue a career as a
professional actor, so be sure to take this opportunity to see him perform
live locally while you can. Donna Williamson's
portrayal of Chris Gorman was yet another winning performance. For those of you who saw The Foreigner at the Leeds Arts
Council, you'll remember Donna as Froggy.
Donna once again delivered a dynamic performance and kept you laughing
both at and with her character. Each member of the cast did an excellent
job of rendering their lines and engaging the audience in the
ever-so-stressful lives of their characters.
The image of Allison Hall (Cookie Cuzack) crawling across the floor on
hands and knees in wedding gown and tiara in an attempt to cook dinner for
her friends with the help of her earnest husband Ernie Cuzack (played by
Donald Norwood) is one that has kept me chuckling for days. Jason Lockridge's depiction of the frazzled
and temporarily deaf Ken Gorman kept the audience giggling. Nick Aycock (Glenn Cooper) and The only problem that I had with the
play was wrapping my mind around the southern accents spoken by a group of
friends who were supposed to be New Yorkers.
After the actors had a chance to show me their characters, though, I
was too busy laughing at the characters and living their lives to notice any
accents. On a more technical note, the cast and
crew did a really good job with the set and created a living room/party space
that I would gladly call home. Of
special note were the hairstyles.
Susie McComb from Kut-Ups did an excellent job of creating coiffures
that helped to define the characters.
Donnna Williamson's (Chris Gorman) updo came unraveled throughout the
play in concert with her character's loss of emotional control. From your first look at Allison Hall's
(Cookie Cuzack) beehive hairstyle, complete with tiara, you knew exactly what
to expect of the character, and Allison's performance did not disappoint. Rumors at the Leeds Arts
Council plays through this weekend. I
highly recommend that you spend the $10 and enjoy a rollicking good time. |
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The Music Man at Reviewed on
July 29th, 2005 by For
pure fun, few shows can beat The Music
Man, and Leeds Arts Council's production is no exception. Directed by Don
Garrett, the show is a high energy, laughter-filled evening, with many
notable performances. I regret to say that my program did not make it home
with me, so please forgive me that I don't know all the actors' names I would
like to mention, and may misspell those I do! Frank Thompson is completely comfortable
as Harold Hill and takes in the audience as well as Not to be outdone, the ladies shine as
well. Leah Luker as Marian Paroo looks as lovely as she sounds while playing
the librarian with just the right amount of uppity prudishness. Lisa Garrett
wears several different hats, well, wigs.... and still does justice to the
role of the Widow Paroo, keeping her Irish accent and motherly ways intact.
Emily Lunsford plays her role of Zaneeta with a comic innocence that is
lively and entertaining. Mayor and Mrs Shinn (Howard Green and
Kim Dometrovich) made a wonderful pair of small-town aristocrats, and the
Pick-a-Little women added many laughs to the evening, with their outrageous
hats and small-town gossipy ways. Another performance of note was the Quartet
of school board members (J.D. Blackmon, Chuck Evans, Bob Parker, and Michael
Lunsford) not only played the bickering board members to the hilt, but
sounded wonderful in all their quartet musical numbers. The ensemble, essential to this
production, not only looked wonderful (kudos to Kim Dometrovich, who
coordinated the costumes) but looked as if they were having a almost as much
fun as I was.
The Music Man at the Leeds
Arts Council plays through this weekend. Don't miss your chance to give |
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Barefoot in the Park at To say that a show is "much better than
expected" is a sort of mixed compliment. It gives the production the
credit it deserves, yet reveals the low expectations of the reviewer,
sometimes making him appear foolish in the process. I am happy, however, to
sit down to a fine meal of crow when I say that Barefoot in the Park
was FAR better than I expected. This play runs Friday through Sunday of this
week, and anyone seeking a fun, entertaining show should definitely attend!
The one "known quantity" in the show was the pair of real-life
spouses, Ron and |
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Shenandoah at Leeds Art Council Theatre
When I first heard that |
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Hello, Dolly at Leeds Art Council Theatre
Hello, Dolly is a perfect show
for community theatre, and Leeds Arts Council has wisely chosen it for a
summer offering. Lively, well-known, and full of memorable tunes, Dolly
is a family-friendly and fun production. One of the wise choices made by
Director |
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