Midlife Crisis. It's usually the first thing I think when I'm out in public and see a middle-aged dad dressed in the same teenage garb that his son is sporting--tattered, stone-washed jeans with excessive embroidery, the "snapback" hat, hightop Michael Jordan shoes, and the famous swagger walk that suggests that he is much younger than he looks, and perhaps his son could be mistaken for his younger brother--you know, in the right lighting. Middle-aged women are similar, should they experience the same midlife situation. I think you can see the image I'm going for when I say, "the hair, the nails, the sunglasses, the tall high-heeled shoes, the latest fashions and accessories, and (God-forbid) expensive plastic surgeries, just to keep that youthful look. Many of us are able to accept our age and who we are/what we've become. We're finished behaving like teenagers and aren't too concerned about the critism of others, especially strangers. But, we have compassion and, at times pity for those who haven't yet reached that point.
Gary Essendine, the beloved main character in Noel Coward's Present Laughter, is such-- a man, trapped in a midlife crisis. In this Upright Theatre production, actor Brad Echols portrays the character with much internal struggle, with a genuine tenderness and fragility of ego. Despite being a successful stage actor, the character Gary Essendine seems to be struggling with imposter syndrome, which thrusts him into the arms of much younger women and swigs of booze all while seeking constant attention from those around him. He adores these people, until they distract from the attention that he believes should be focused on him.
The real mastermind, however, is his marvelous wife, Liz Essendine. ChristaCarol Jones is spot-on in her portrayal of Liz, depicting a colorful and confident character, one who holds all the cards and sees through the schemes of others, as if they are completely transparent. She is no fool and she will not be fooled with! Ms. Jones plays a gentle, loving Queen of Essendine who maintains order and control in her castle by stroking the egos of those who need it and thwarting conniving little snakes, like Joanna Lyppiat (played by Stacy Kernweis). With the help of Gary's secretary, Monica Reed (played by Stacey Calvert) Liz tames Joanna the Serpent in Act 2 in a gripping scene that threatens to out Joanna for who she really is, upsetting her devious plan to overthrow the Queen.
Among the servants in the household there is a delightful gentlemanly butler, Fred, who ironically shares the name with the actor who plays him, Fred Patterson. Fred Patterson is absolutely charming in this role! Having more sense of the outside world than his employer, Fred is steady and sure of himself and his abilities. He enjoys life and gives a great chuckle or some quick words of wit to cheer up the room. Mr. Patterson gives us a jolly old bloke with sprightly sensibilities and overall merriment. He is, indeed, what Gary should aspire to be in terms of character and general humor. (As if to say, relax Gary and don't take yourself so seriously.)
Present Laughter is splendid; an excellent choice for the weekend's entertainment! Enjoy this upbeat comedy of manners at the picturesque Upright Theatre studio in Euless!
Pictured above are Brad Echols as Gary Essendine and ChristaCarol Jones as Liz Essendine.
Y'all Enjoy!
Natalie Shaw
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