Review: Hampton Theatre Company's NOVEMBER

When you have a David Mamet play - in this case November billed as political satire - with a cartoon turkey on the cover of the playbill, then you know you are in for an evening full of laughter. This show, which premiered on Broadway in 2008, is being mounted by The Hampton Theatre Company at a perfect time given the tumultuous political time we're currently in. In other words, this production will make you laugh even more at politics.

Running through November 6th, this incarnation, excellently directed by Diana Marbury, boats an absolutely superb cast.

We first meet current U.S. President Charles Smith strongly portrayed by Andrew Botsford (played by Nathan Lane in the Broadway incarnation). It isn't clear which party he represents and he is irrefutably and incurably corruptible. With his approval rating near zero, he is abandoned by his party during an election year and we follow Smith freaking out desperately trying to get money together to get re-elected.

His staff, too, has given up hope. His speech writer, Clarice, portrayed by Rebecca Edana (portrayed by Laurie Metcalf on Broadway) has written his farewell speech just days before people even hit the polls. And Smith's advisor, Archer Brown, portrayed by Matthew Conlon (portrayed by Dylan Baker on Broadway), tells him MANY times to just give up. The entire cast is truly superb with their on-point comedy and the laughs are unfailing throughout the show.

Also a highlight is the beautiful set designed by Sean Marbury. Set in the oval office, the President's desk is off to one side with a chair/coffee table set on the other. Blue and white walls encompass the intimate stage and they even replicate the presidential seal on the floor. This was enhanced beautifully by Ms. Marbury's set décor and Teresa LeBrun's clever costumes.

And so, Mr. Mamet's archetypal no-holds-barred style absolutely shines in November. Its side-splitting, scathing depiction of political corruption that infects too many politicians obviously remains uncannily relevant in this election season. Attend this delightful play with an open mind and a good sense of humor because everyone is made fun of.

November is presented by the Hampton Theatre Company through November 6th at the Quogue Community Hall. For more information and to purchase tickets, please call 631-653-8955 or visit www.hamptontheatre.org.

By David Mamet, Direction & Set Décor & Properties by Diana Marbury, Set Design by Sean Marbury, Lighting Design by Sebastian Paczynski, Costume Design by Teresa LeBrun, Stage Management by Chrissie DePierro

Starring Andrew Botsford, Matthew Conlon, Rebecca Edana, MATTHEW O'CONNOR, and ROB BYRNES

Photo by Tom Kochie; Cast members Rebecca Edana, Andrew Botsford, Matthew O'Connor, and Matthew Conlon.

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