Review: BroadHollow's ASSISTED LIVING, THE MUSICAL

See, everyone? Getting older doesn't have to be boring or frightening. As depicted in the adorable production of Assisted Living, The Musical, it can be an interesting ride to embrace. For the satirical tale, creators Rick Compton and Betsy Bennett created an eclectic collection of characters, portrayed by two actors, to make light in reaching the twilight years living in a retirement community.

Presented by the BroadHollow Theatre Company at the BayWay Theatre through May 7th, Long Island theatre vet Matt Stashin excellently directs the up-and-coming, charming show. Thus far, it has had an impressive life mostly in the Mid-West and Southern states and seems to be making its way to the west coast, too. I could definitely see this in a full off-Broadway theatre at some point. The first time this production was played in New York was when BroadHollow brought it to their Elmont location last year and they found the response was absolutely thrilling, so they brought it over to the BayWay for a run.

The whole set up of the two acts is really clever. Pretty much each song is a different story; though some do tie together. They each tell about some situation we get into as we get older like joining the AARP or thinking something is terribly wrong when you're simply not feeling well. And Ariann Miller Forella and Gary Tifeld perform each number hilariously and superbly differentiate each character. Highlights for the enthusiastic audience include Ms. Forella as Naomi and Mr. Tifeld's as a lawyer. I must say that going in to see this show, I perhaps was picturing that we'd be seeing an older couple, but theirs was a very entertaining performance.

As for Mr. Stashin's creative team, Robert Butterley's set is attractive and simple. A receptionist's desk, plants, three scrims as a backdrop, and a few other movable pieces are the focal point. This is enhanced beautifully by Hemraj Budhram's top-notch lighting and Joseph Kassner's germane costumes.

And so, Assisted Living, The Musical, is indeed another hit for the wonderful BroadHollow Theatre Company. Great comedic acting and a hilarious story make for a fun night of theatre.

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Assisted Living, The Musical is presented by the BroadHollow Theatre Company at the BayWay Theatre through May 7th. For more information and to purchase tickets, please call (631) 581-2700 or visit www.broadhollow.org.

Starring Ariann Miller Forella and Gary Tifeld

Created by Rick Compton & Betsy Bennett, Directed by Matt Stashin, Musical Direction by Elizabeth DeGennaro, Technical Direction & Set Design by Robert Butterley, Lighting Design by Hemraj Budhram, Costume Design by Joseph Kassner, Stage Management by Jason Leal

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