Attending Benicia Old Town Theatre Group’s (BOTTG) production of two one-act comedies, “Little Nell” by John Nash, and “Little Nell and the Mortgage Foreclosure” by John Donald O’shea, I was entertained by both the company’s frolicking mad-cap humor and that evening’s audience. The production stands as an ideal excuse to gather a group of friends for an evening of inexpensive entertainment. The audience is prompted by cue cards to either boo, hiss, or cheer the villains and heroes. The theatre provides popcorn to throw at the villain. It is a divine riot stirred by the cast, parodying the old fashioned silent movies.
Both acts feature the ingenue, wholesome maiden in distress, Nell, always pursued by the evil intentions of a villain in black cape, handle bar mustache, and a black hat. She is rescued by the wholesome boy next door, or the “Dudley Doo Right” type. The actors perform different roles in the production. The ingenue in the first act becomes the pimping mother in the second act. The villain in the first act plays the hero in the second act. It is a treat to witness how each actor changes from play to play. The whole ensemble shares their sense of fun and enjoyment with the audience.
The theatre is arranged like an old time cabaret with tables and chairs. KGO talk show host, Marty Nemko, welcomes the audience with music of the silent movie era. Lyrics are provided on the tables as he leads everyone on piano. For the first play, Nemko as Gideon Byball, the “hayseed” piano player, dons baggie overalls and a straw hat. His Carolina drawl is comical. In the second act, Nemko transforms into the villain, Carlton Bainbridge. As the audience heckles his villainous role, Nemko takes advantage of the moment. Even as his fake mustache accidentally goes half off, he appropriately alludes to the mishap, which leaves the thunderous audience more in an uproar.
Bill Chessman, a physically and vocally skilled actor, gives likablity to his villainous character of Wiley Whiplash. Yet, his wonderful stage voice fittingly adores the heroic character of Hector Skyscraper in the second play. Instead of playing for the laughs, Chessman lends candid expressions and physicality, much like the late film star, Peter Sellers.
Susan Amacker stars as Nell in the first play, and then as the mother willing to sell her daughter off to the villain in the second play. Amacker charms the audience as she adds physical nuances to her roles. Her singing is not be missed, either.
Barbara Sloss, an Interior Designer by day, appears comfortable in her role as the clever Aunt Nora in the first play. In the second play, she performs the role of Nell with melodramatic exaggeration, which aptly suits the production.
Wayne Jonson as the nerdish hero, Casy Cleandeed, in the first play, and as the grandpa figure in the second play, exhibits his grasp of character work on stage.
The comedy was touched up with the fine work of costumer Donna Telepak. The gingham dress of both Nells, the suspenders of the men, the plaid suits, black capes, and wigs sprinkle some extra humorous flavor to the show.
The production brought back memories of my high school days of viewing the “Rocky Horror Picture Show.” But, BOTTG’s evening is more light hearted, innocent, and cozy. The performance space has much character as well. I enjoyed the small bar room where one can enjoy excellent coffee for a mere dollar, or with Kahlua for a few more dollars. The bathrooms are very quaint as well. BOTTG is a gem to be discovered by more in the Benicia community. Its production is suitable for all ages.
www.benicaoldtowntheatregroup.com
707-746-5526
Friday and Saturday Night Performances:
Performances begin at 8:00 p.m. General Admission Ticket: $17.00, Seniors- $15.
Senior Sunday Performances:
Performances begin at 4:00 p.m.
General Admission Ticket: $17.00
Senior Citizen (age 62): $15.00
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