Barefoot in the Park Performances a Must-See

Continues February 23, 24 and March 2, 3, and 4

— from Rosie Kuhn —

Whatever you have planned this coming weekend of February 23-24, or the weekend of March 2,3, 4, change your plans and make sure you have a ticket for this really fun and wonderful production of Barefoot in the Park.

As always, under his skillful direction, Doug Bechtel has created a professional quality performance. The story takes place in the 70s. It is about a newly wedded young couple living in New York. Corie (played by Danica Coffman) is a passionate free-spirit married to Paul (played by Kevin Hauschild) who is a young and upcoming lawyer who is more likely to follow the rules. The play begins on their sixth day of marriage as they’ve just entered their new apartment that is less than finished.

Ethel, Corie’s mother (played by Luann Pamatian) lives with her sister in New Jersey. Corie, her only daughter is now on her own, and Ethel is on her own, too.

Victor (played by Tony Lee) is bohemian eccentric fellow that has led a very adventurous life. Victor is 68 years old and lives in the attic above Paul and Corie’s apartment. This adds to the seemingly unusual and crazy elements for this young couple living in New York City.

The delivery man (Miquel Villarreal) and telephone repairman (Larry Hampel) add so much to this production. Though these roles are small, the terrific acting of both of these men, lets us know that this cast is thoroughly committed to giving the audience a great evening at the theater.

I was pleasantly surprised and thoroughly enjoyed the quality of acting of all members of the cast. They portrayed their characters in such a way that like all good actors, you think you are looking through a window, watching real people living their lives. But through the eyes of Neil Simon, Doug Bechtel, cast, and crew, you laugh out loud at life’s zany scenarios.

Danica and Kevin do a super job letting us know how passionate they are about each other. They make us remember those moments when nothing else mattered but to be in the arms of the one we love. At the same time, we feel the frustration and devastation when even in the honeymoon stage of a relationship it is obvious that in even the most passionate relationships there are sometimes conflicts that seem unresolvable, especially for newlyweds.

Luann does a superb job at playing Corie’s mom. And Tony Lee, as always brings all of himself to his character.

With the new lighting system in the Grange, the sets, props, and costumes, I was so delightedly impressed with the whole package of this production. For such a small Island group, The Actors Theater of Orcas Island put together a highly polished production. Don’t miss it.