Review: See THE OUTSIDER at Paper Mill Playhouse-A Superb Political Satire

Be an insider and see The Outsider now at Paper Mill Playhouse through February 18. The East Coast premiere of this politically themed play is written by Paul Slade Smith and directed by David Esbjornson. Funny, timely, and dare we say, entirely possible, The Outsider is a wonderfully crafted, superbly presented show that features a stellar cast.

When the Governor resigns due to a scandal, Ned Newley, the reluctant and humble Lieutenant Governor must assume the position. Although Newley is keen on policy matters, he has no political talent and a definite fear of public speaking. Even with the support of his diligent Chief of Staff, Dave Riley and with help from two sharp political consultants, Paige Caldwell and Arthur Vance, it seems unlikely that Newly could ever win a special election. A public relations attempt has unexpected consequences when reporter, Rachel Parsons and her cameraman, A.C. arrive on the scene. The television interview goes awry as Louise Peakes, the scatterbrained office receptionist, hastily joins in. The story has comical twists and turns as polling and public perception drive the political scene.

The cast of The Outsider is exceptional. They master their roles and capture the humor and charm of the play. The company features Lenny Wolpe as Ned Newley; Julia Duffy as Paige Caldwell; Manoel Felciano as Dave Riley; Erin Noel Grennan as Louise Peakes; Burke Moses as Arthur Vance; Kelley Curran as Rachel Parsons; and Mike Houston as A.C. Petersen. Audiences will love the dynamic scenes that keep you chuckling and wondering what will happen from minute to minute.

The production team has done a top job of bringing The Outsider to the Millburn stage. They include set design by Michael Schweikardt; costume design by Elizabeth Hope Clancy; lighting design by Ben Stanton; hair and wig design by Charles G. LaPointe; and sound design by Randy Hansen. The Production Stage Manager is Mark A. Stys. Casting is by Telsey + Company.

No matter what your political ideals are, you will totally enjoy The Outsider. It is an insightful, witty satire about modern American politics that will appeal to a vast audience. Mark S. Hoebee, Producing Artistic Director and Todd Schmidt, Managing Director continue to make the 2017-2018 Season at Paper Mill Playhouse outstanding.

The Outsider will be performed eight times a week, Wednesday through Sunday. Tickets are on sale now starting at $34. Tickets may be purchased by calling 973.376.4343, at the Paper Mill Playhouse Box Office, or online at https://papermill.org/. Groups of 10 or more can receive up to a 40% discount on tickets and should call 973.315.1680. Students may order $23 rush tickets over the phone or in person at the Paper Mill Playhouse box office on the day of the performance. Paper Mill Playhouse's 2017/2018 season is sponsored by Investors Bank.

Photo Credit: Michael Murphy and Jerry Dalia

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