Review: ARSENIC AND OLD LACE Exceeds Expectations

I have spent many wonderful hours at South City Theatre, both on stage and in the audience. South City has a reputation for picking out enjoyable plays and doing a good job presenting them. I don't usually miss one of their plays, but this time I almost did. ARSENIC AND OLD LACE is not one of my favorite plays, so I almost decided to skip this one. Man, am I glad I didn't make that mistake!

ARSENIC AND OLD LACE is one of the best plays I have seen at South City. It is funny, well acted, well directed and beautifully presented. From the gorgeous set by Mike Gerrells and Dan Strickland (both are also cast members) to the nice lighting design, from the interesting staging to the delightful costumes, everything seemed to go off perfectly on opening night.

Sharon Morgan and Sue Ellen Gerrells are the sweet and caring Brewster sisters, but their naughty side is funny, innocent and more than a little crazy. Mrs. Gerrells again proves why she is one of the area's finest actresses.

Katie Milligan as Elaine Harper was one of my favorites tonight. She is smart, has a clear, bell like voice and when it came to physical comedy she shows just how talented she is. Her scene with Drew Brown as Jonathan Brewster and Dan Strickland as Dr. Einstein is exceptionally funny, especially when they try to take her downstairs.

Rush Brunson as Mortimer is a perfect match for Ms. Milligan and everyone else on stage. He made me think of a young Jimmy Stewart, serious when necessary, funny when called on and a bit naïve throughout. At one point I thought his yelling was about to get out of hand, but just about then it became the controlled rage it needed to be.

I really could mention every cast member- they are all so good. And director JJ Marrs does a great job of keeping everything moving. With so many actors on a small stage and an elaborate set to boot, Marrs keeps everyone where they need to be and everything natural and uncluttered.

I was also glad to see that the move for South City continues to be a good one and that they continue to sell out their performances. If you want to find out about tickets to this or any future show, auditions, and their upcoming summer camp then go to www.southcitytheatre.com or call 205-621-2128. ARSENIC AND OLD LACE runs until April 17.

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