Despite a snowstorm Friday, Saturdays inaugural flight of Dutch Country Players Theatres production of Boeing Boeing enjoyed clear weather and minimal turbulence.
Written by Marc Camoletti, adapted by Beverly Cross and directed by John Weber, this fun filled farce keeps you buckled into your seats with plenty of snacks and libations.
Boeing Boeing is a comedy about the skillful, if reprehensible, juggling of multiple fiancées through impeccable attention to airline timetables, with the assistance of a very dedicated and organized domestic servant and a quick witted old school pal.
The snowy fringes of mega-weather event NEMO cancelled Fridays scheduled opening, so Saturday nights crowd practically filled this wonderful little playhouse in Telford, PA.
With the addition of light appetizers and wine provided before the performance, the stage was set for an enjoyable evenin
The show opens to a maturely confident Bernard (Walter Bender) enjoying breakfast with his flight attendant, Gloria (Emma Strowger, who struggled slightly with a resistant Bronx-meets-Jersey-girl accent).
Then, Berthe (beautifully played by Jan Thompson) makes it very clear that she does not agree with how her "Monsura" conducts his life. Her anxiety grows steadily through the evening, assisted by Bernards old school pal Robert (Wesley Hrabina, whose set-ups and quick rejoinders make this duo the highlight of the show).
Once we see Gloria off, we are introduced to Gabriella (Stefania Revelli, whose engaging personality brings believability to Gabriella without taking it over the top), a charming and beautiful Italian who adores Bernard, Robert,--- and herself.
At her departure, we meet our final victim/fiancée, Gretchen (wonderfully played by Michelle Rieder), a loud and boisterous German, with deep passion and conviction, the perfectly fitting final piece to this comedic ensemble.
As these air hostesses circle the globe, the Parisian flat, and each other in blissful ignorance, you can feel the drama coming. The way in which Robert "helps" Bernard is clever and engaging. Berthes ability to profit from every situation is unique and enterprising.
The set is simple, but effective, and you dont get any long pauses between scenes.
The prop Bernard uses to explain how he manages his three fiancées to Robert is unexpected and quite funny.
The entire cast adds little touches here and there to take this production from okay to funny and good.
The play builds through the first act, and is able to deliver on expectations in the second half via physical comedy and quick paced dialogue. How will Bernard handle all of these women when his beloved timetables are compromised' How much will it take for Berthe to stay' How does Robert end up on the receiving end of much female attention' All of these questions and problems are artfully and enjoyably resolved for you.
All together, this is a flight to catch.
'Boeing Boeing' runs through February 23. For information, please call (215)234-0966, or visit their website www.dcptheatre.com