BWW Reviews: SOCIAL SECURITY - A First Rate Production!

BWW Reviews: "SOCIAL SECURITY" - a FIRST RATE PRODUCTION!

By Andrew Bergman

Directed by James Cass

February 16th, 2014 at 3P.M.

The Carrollwood Theatre has grabbed the Brass Ring once again , with the hilarious comedy "SOCIAL SECURITY", directed by James Cass. The 2 Act comedy played to a Sold Out crowd on the first Sunday matinee. The audience laughed and giggled throughout the performance. And they weren't the only ones! I joined them, shaking my head and laughing out loud too!

And..I've seen the show many times over the years. This is a First Rate Production! BRAVO!

The story takes place in 1985, in Art Gallery owner's Barbara and David Kahn's upscale, trendy, two bedroom apartment, on Manhattan's east side. Barbara's sister and her husband arrive from their home on Long Island, sharing many family stories and a real, live surprise as well. That is when the "action" starts and you will have to see the show yourself to find out.

"SOCIAL SECURITY" is not Ibsen. There is nothing to "think about". The play is very much like a television "situation comedy", with broad humor, a few sex jokes , and alot of one liners. Mix that with a stereotypical New York, Jewish family; and you have one FANTASTIC AUDIENCE PLEASER! And the audience loved it!

"SOCIAL SECURITY" opened on Broadway, April 17, 1986 at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre, where it ran for 388 performances. It won 2 Drama Desk Awards, for Outstanding Featured Actress in a Play and Outstanding Set Design.

The curtain opens to a sleek, steel gray, bi-level apartment by set designer James Cass. Mr. Cass has a great eye for detail and his stage dressings make this swanky apartment look like the owner's art gallery; the perfect choice for this production. There were a few 80's "kitsch" additions that not only brought back memories, but giggles. The lighting design by Frank Stinehour is excellent, with a wash that melds into mood lighting. Mr. Stinehour incorporates the use of some great set fixtures to highlight the art work. The costume design by James Cass and Chris Dietz were appropriately right "out of the '80's".

Director James Cass , did a fine job assembling this well balanced, talented cast. The challenging role of David, is charmingly played by Andrew Blizzard. Mr. Blizzard is to be applauded for making a wise choice in making his "wheeler- dealer"- Art dealer, a"likable" role. (the script tends to lend itself to be interpreted; quite the opposite).

Sara Connolly gives an outstanding performance, giving life to her portrayal of Barbara. Miss. Connolly is so honest and real, (in this farce of a comedy) that one forgets she is acting at all. She is the glue that holds the show together.

In the role of Trudy, Nancy Fueyo "pulls out all the stops", with her snappy one-liners, in a very stereotypical characterization, as Barbara's loud-mouth, wildly attired sister. Ms. Fueyo is hilarious (and she knows how to get her laughs), with her rapid fire zingers and spot on LAWWNNGG EYELANNNDD accent. An unforgettable performance. As Martin, (Trudy's nerdy, accountant, husband) Buzz Van Dyke underplays the role to the hilt. Mr. Van Dyke is the perfect foil to Ms. Fueyo and they work very well together.

As the aged Sophie, (Barbara and Trudy's mother), Jan Van Dyke adds alot of laughs to the play. Her transformation from using a "walker" to a "sizzling senior", is a highlight that brought the house down. Ms. Van Dyke is perfectly cast opposite the delightful Ron Forth, as 1oo year old artist, Maurice. Mr. Forth is simply...loveable.

Director James Cass, knows comedy. He interesting and meaningfully, staged this production adding comic business and bits, that worked like a charm. The Carrollwoood Players are fortunate to have the talents of Mr. Cass as part of their creative team.

So, if you want to have fun and some real belly laughs...Go See "SOCIAL SECURITY"!

You will be glad you did!

Please support Community Theatre and all of the volunteers, that put in endless time and talent, to make the magic happen, simply... "for the LOVE of the theatre".
For mature audiences.
"SOCIAL SECURITY" runs February 14th - March 8th, 2014
Ticket Prices $18.00 There are special Student/Military and Senior discounts are available upon request
CALL - (813) 265-4000
The theatre is located at 4335 Gunn Hwy Tampa, Fl, 33618
The next production at Carrollwood Players is "Bermuda Avenue Triangle", March 21st through April 12th, 2014

To post a comment, you must register and login.