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The Commercial Appeal June 15, 2004 THIS CLASSIC PLAY DOESN'T SHOW ITS AGE Author: Jon W. Sparks sparks@commercialappeal.com Edition: Final Article Text: The 1936 play "You Can't Take It With You" was a huge success on Broadway in its day and has been frequently produced over the years as a favorite at schools and community theaters. The Theatre Memphis confection shows that the Kaufman and Hart classic still serves up fun even as it nears its 70th year. The entire cast performed with enthusiasm; some also did so with great skill. Barry Fuller occupies the center as Martin Vanderhof, patriarch of the eccentric clan whose members are constantly swirling about his New York home. Fuller is so reliable and consistent that it's tempting to take him for granted. But his easy manner should not mask the fact that he is especially adroit at making the most of his stage resources. He is a longtime local actor and director, nd his excellence consistently shines through. The story relies heavily on the odd but endearing behavior of the family and others who have become fixtures in the goofy household. The lovely daughter has fallen in love with the son of a corporate titan and, as we've seen in countless movies and TV shows that have no doubt been inspired by th! is play, the two cultures collide with rollicking results. It's a particular delight to watch Mary Buchignani's hapless ballet student Essie strive to make every movement a triumph of the terpsichorean art. Diane Ellington also shows superb comic abilities as Rheba the cook. Especially fine performances are also supplied by Laurie Cook McIntosh, Marianne Orendorff and S.A. Weakley. The set is terrific, which has become something to depend on at Theatre Memphis. Scenic designer Daniel A. Kopera has done fine work in creating a house fit for oddballs. And the costumes by Andre Bruce Ward hit just the right note. The age of the play is shown in some politically incorrect jokes and by references to Kay Francis (a '30s film star, if you don't know) and Childs restaurants. And even Trotsky. "You Can't Take It With You" runs through June 27. - Jon W. Sparks: 529-2533 Memo: Copyright 2004 The Commercial Appeal, Memphis, TN |
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