The script is by comedian Lewis Black, well known for his angry-rant comedy style. I could imagine him him in a wig and a dress playing the beleaguered Mother of the Bride, “Delia”. Linda Granger channelled his spirit in her exasperated braying as her daughter’s “perfect” wedding devolved into assorted IMperfections. Father-of-the-Bride “Doc”, Chris Klaver got to display his own special blend of frantic and/or silly drunken desperation.
Monica Holland served as the put-upon little sister bridesmaid and Narrator, taking us back to the 80’s to set up the tale, and tying it up in the end with a what-happened-afterward bow. Tyler Frease as “Ryan” the old boyfriend inadvertently crashing the wedding, dove in and out of closets and bathrooms. He spent much of the play dressed in a towel — which was particularly appreciated by alcoholic nurse sister bridesmaid, “Melanie” (Carin McEvoy) who had a refreshing drunken, flirtatious style that contrasted with the frantic scrambling of the others. Rebecca Williams was earnest but confused as bride “Courtney” bouncing between the “free spirit” old boyfriend and the polite, disciplined fiancé, Harper (Joe Clark).
Luckily the script allowed frantic Mom, Linda, to show her human side in a warm, reminiscent monologue in act 2, and some underlying heart softened the angry plot line and led us to an unexpectedly happy resolution.
Welcome back to Director Mona Gille returned after a long hiatus. She will also direct Calendar Girls for Starlight next fall.
One Slight Hitch continues tomorrow (Sunday) at 1:30 for a “dessert only” matinee - I think you can get tickets at the door; not sure if “dessert” will be available to those without reservations. Reservations are required for dinner.
Next Friday/Saturday dinner at 6:30 - show at 7:30 - (show only walk-in tickets are $15/$14)
Dinner reservations at 517-599-2779
http://www.starlightdinnertheatre.com