by Lonnie the Theater Lady
The Ahrens and Flaherty musical farce “Lucky Stiff” opens with hapless British shoe salesman Harry Witherspoon (Ryan Hadbavny) learning his American Uncle Tony (who he has never met) has passed away and willed him six million dollars. However, there is a catch. The will stipulates that Harry must fulfill his uncle’s lifelong dream and take his corpse on a dream vacation to Monte Carlo. Harry eagerly jumps at the chance to escape his dull, mundane life. It would be difficult enough to travel with a corpse in a wheelchair, but the trip is further complicated.
His uncle’s floozy girlfriend Rita LaPorta (Krista Strosnider) and Anabel Glick, (Riley Tate) an employee of the Universal Dog Home, show up in Monte Carlo believing they both have the right to claim the fortune for themselves. They use any means possible to procure the millions. There is no limit to their chicanery. Ridiculous events ensue—things get crazy.
The entire cast does a fantastic job with their sight jokes and physical comedy. Their high-octane energy is nonstop—they never run out of gas as they run in and out of doors while changing costumes in record breaking time.
“Lucky Stiff” cast. Photo Credit: Carina Iannarelli
Hadbavny is convincing as the slightly nerdy, awkward Harry. He’s likable and earnest, making it nearly impossible not to root for his success. He’s an example of meticulous comedic timing.
Tate’s Anabel’s passion for dogs rings true. Her transition from tough stalker to sweet, innocent woman endears her to the audience.
Strosnider’s delightful portrayal of the brash, somewhat clueless hussy, Rita never fails to amuse. Her lovely vocals delight in all of her musical numbers.
Rita’s brother Vincent DiRuzzio (Travis Miller) is reluctantly pulled into Rita’s pursuit of the money. His uneasy discomfort with her escapade elicits sympathy from the audience while simultaneously being laugh worthy.
Sean Michael Barret is a riot as Luigi —the overly friendly, somewhat mysterious man who frequently pops up unexpectedly. His obsequious exuberance is reminiscent of that neighbor one always tries to avoid.
Dead Uncle in Wheelchair, (Sean Nagle) performs flawlessly. He’s perfectly motionless unless one of the actors moves one part or another of his lifeless body. It’s amazing that he’s able to keep his face expressionless in the midst of all the hi jinx and frenzy surrounding him! Terrific!
Without exception every member of the ensemble brilliantly embodies each and every one of the many characters they play.
Adrien-Sophie Curry is hysterical as the drunken hotel maid. They kill that role.
Joel Ambrose is beyond hilarious playing his wacky, spirited characters–French waiter, tourist with a baby, night club singer, lawyer— He hams it up in every role and is truly a joy to watch. His accents and physical comedy are a total crack up!
Compliments to director Cameron Nickel. The numerous scene changes are seamless and very quick. There is never a moments lapse in the action. He precisely choreographs all the sight gags to get the most humor out of them. He clearly encourages the cast to lean into their crazy— to the delight of the audience.
The ingenious set (April Beiswenger, designer), has the abundance of doors necessary on the set of a musical farce. The additional sliding platforms and large rolling set pieces cleverly provide a myriad of set locations!
Costume designer Rob Hockenberry must have worked overtime to come up with such a great number of first-rate costumes. Ranging from tuxedos and gowns to maids and waiters—and so many more! Nicely done!
This remarkably funny show is full of surprises and unforgettable scenes –no spoilers here.
“Lucky Stiff” is a delightful, wild, frenzied bit of comedy mayhem chock full of surprises, frivolity and twists. It’s “Weekend at Bernie’s” on steroids. In these tumultuous times, everyone desperately needs a laugh. This loco show provides much more than a laugh or two. Its nonstop hilarity is guaranteed to brighten and lighten everyone’s mood!
LTL
“Lucky Stiff” is a production of South Park Theatre. Performances run from June 18th through July 5th.
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