Arsenic and Old Lace
--Reviewed by Lisa Farrall

What I really enjoy about the shows at The Theatre Company is all the detail that is put into the productions.  From the set dressing to the audio as the audience is being seated, the details are what sets this group apart from the others.  I was, therefore, looking forward to seeing "Arsenic and Old Lace" directed by Peg Girard and I was not disappointed.  The pace was terrific, the acting was excellent, and the technical details supported the show well.

"Arsenic and Old Lace" is about the Brewster family which is, to say the least, a little eccentric.  Two maiden aunts, Abby (Nadine Antaillia) and Martha (Debby Pitcher) are "helping" lonely old male boarders escape their existence by giving them poisoned elderberry wine.  The aunts live with Teddy (Don Cross) who thinks he's Teddy Roosevelt.  Their nephew, Mortimer (Chandler McRee), is romantically involved with the preacher's daughter, Elaine Harper (Emily Pickens).  Mortimer's murderous brother, Jonathan (Bill Carter), arrives on the scene with his strange plastic surgeon, Dr. Einstein (Dana Blanchard).  Throw into the mix assorted policemen:  Officers Brophy (Gordon Ringer), Klein (John Rowe), O'Hara (Terrence Girard), and Lieutenant Rooney (Dan Wilkerson). 

The cast was very strong.  I especially enjoyed Antaillia and Pitcher who would jabber at each other like little old biddies when leaving the stage. They interacted well with each other. I thought McRee was a bit old for his part, but he certainly did a good job of being flustered and upset at his aunts.  Carter's tall stature helped with his menacing look; he came across as mean and angry.  Blanchard was a hoot with his German accent and his fearful stance with Jonathan. Cross was quite Presidential in his portrayal. Girard was entertaining as Officer O'Hara; he droned on about the play he was writing.  I enjoyed the physical humor when Rowe and Ringer were together on stage (Mutt and Jeff). Wilkerson was believable as Lt. Rooney.

I understand that several of the cast members were late additions due to personal issues by former cast members.  They are to be commended for learning their lines and blocking in so short a time.

The set, designed by Julia Smith, was charming and accurately depicted a 1940's boarding house.  Props were perfect for the period.   Lighting was ably designed by Alan Selby. The sound was excellent and was designed by Wendy Reader.  La Duet Smiard supplied costumes which were well done, especially the aunts' dresses and Elaine's outfit.

Even if you've seen “Arsenic and Old Lace” many times before, you owe it to yourself to see this production.  It closes on 2 November 2008. 

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