Theater reviews
‘Patent Leather’ tickles at Timonium
By Celeste H. Breitenbach
news@timesheraldnews.com
Based on a warning Catholic School girls of my day were given by the nuns, the musical comedy DO BLACK PATENT LEATHER SHOES REALLY REFLECT UP? brings back almost forgotten memories of a more innocent time as it plays through June 17 at Lorenzo’s Timonium Dinner Theatre, 9603 Deereco Rd.
At a playwright, cast and critic party following the first time I saw this show some years ago, I told the author that I could find only one thing wrong with his play.
It is that I could have written it and should have written it, but I did not write it.
To this day, it remains my favorite play of those in the “religious comedy” genre and Lorenzo’s does not disappoint.
Alan Hoffman as Eddie Ryan is priceless. Edward Higgins is a believable Father O’Reilly and Anne Hilb as Becky Bakowski is stellar. Indeed the entire cast deserves kudos for their outstanding performances. Three cheers, too, for an exceptional job well done by Director, Musical Director and Choreographer Susie Goebeler.
Even if you haven’t survived Catholic School and The Confessional, DO BLACK PATENT LEATHER SHOES REALLY REFLECT UP? will tickle your funny bone.
Lorenzo’s is offering a special 2-for-1 rate and the chef serves up a bountiful, varied and delicious buffet. What more could you ask for an enjoyable evening (or matinee) out! For reservations, call (410) 560-1113.
ANNIE GET YOUR GUN at Dundalk Community Theatre
By Celeste H. Breitenbach
news@timesheraldnews.com
ANNIE GET YOUR GUN concludes its run this weekend at Dundalk Community Theatre on the CCBC Dundalk campus at 7201 Sollers Point Rd.
Dynamic in the title role, Lauren Spencer-Harris is a perfect foil for Michael Quinn’s Frank Butler. She really belts out “You Can’t Get a Man With A Gun.” He charms with “The Girl That I Marry.”
Together they make sparks performing such memorable Irving Berlin hits as “There’s No Business Like Show Business,” “They Say (that falling in love) It’s Wonderful,” and “Anything You Can Do (I can do better).”
Everyone in this large cast has been honed to perfection by Director John Desmone. Marc W. Smith (Scenic/Lighting/Sound/Design), James J. Fasching (Costume Coordinator) and Sally Tarr (Orchestra Director) deserve special applause for their efforts.
As a footnote, it was a delightful surprise to find Greg Dohmeier (who grew up two blocks from me in Parkville) playing a variety of roles.
In addition to appearing as the Engineer and Mr. T.L.C. Keefer, Greg (now a married Perry Hall resident) can be found as the tallest cast member among the Townsfolk, Showfolk, Snootyfolk and Indianfolk.
It never ceases to amaze how much talent we have locally.
ANNIE GET YOUR GUN provides enjoyable entertainment for a pocket-friendly price. Reserve your tickets by calling, 410-780-6369.