Noises Off

What a pleasant evening at the theater! "Noises Off" opened Friday, July 29, 2011, at Georgia Shakespeare at the home of Oglethorpe University. The show started relatively on-time, which, theater-goers everywhere love. After a short curtain speech from Producing Artistic Director and Director of the show, Richard Garner, we thrown into the world of the rehearsal of the play, "Nothing On." What a surprise to hear Chris Kayser, playing Lloyd Dallas, sitting out in the house with us! His own table, his own chair, his own microphone and his own brand of blunt commentary on the happenings on stage. And what better way to let the audience really know and feel the frustrations of rehearsal for a show, especially on the night/morning before opening, than to use the audience area along with the stage. It wasn't expected and it was a delight for all senses! Definitely not a "late seating" kind of show! Belinda Blair, played by Tess Malis Kincaid, was a delight to see on stage! Her movements her tactfulness and her costumes (mad props to Costume Designer, Doug Koertge - that dress was gorgeous!) set her character well! Joe Knezevich, who played Garry LeJeune, had great comedic timing with his jealous rage and physical falls.
By far, though, Selsdon is my favorite character. In every production that I have seen of this show, he really is my favorite. And Allan Edwards did not disappoint. He wasn't oaf-ishly drunk as some others have played him, and somehow, he was more "real." He was like an uncle or close older male that a family would have over for dinner all the time. Brooke Ashton, played by Ann Marie Gideon, did a fine job as well. Her character was spot-on with the dialogue, no matter what the cost, and her sweet nature was very pleasant to see on stage.
I feel for the SM (played by Scott Warren) and the ASM (played by Caitlin McWethy.) I've been in their shoes and understand their pain. Well done with the characters and trying to keep that show together!
Kat Conley, the set designer, did very well with the construction of not only what the audience sees, but the set that the "show audience" does not see. She created it very simply and easy enough to move on the revolving stage. Good use of the space!
Over all, this is an enjoyable night of entertainment for everyone! I definitely encourage everyone to see this show!