Review: RUMORS being stirred at McKinney Repertory Theatre

 RUMORS


A Comedy by Neil Simon

Directed by Aaron Adair

Produced by McKinney Repertory Theatre

Reviewed by: Glynda Welch

There’s only one problem with McKinney Repertory Theatre’s fast-paced production of Rumors. It closes May 13th.  Director Aaron Adair has assembled a talented group of actors to bring to life Neil Simon’s memorably beleaguered characters. A full-length farce, Rumors tracks an anniversary dinner party gone confusingly wrong. Ken and Chris Gorman, played by Luke Wallace and Kelsey Korman have arrived to discover their host incapacitated their hostess invisible, and the household staff missing. Wallace is a master of manic physical comedy essential to the role of Ken. Korman’s comic timing shines throughout, but especially during her moments on the telephone. 

Second to arrive are Lenny and Claire Ganz played by Ken Schwartz and Jennifer Becherer. Their  anniversary gift for the couple and their equilibrium have been shattered by a nasty hit-and-run accident that has damaged Lenny’s two-day-old BMW. Like Wallace, Schwartz gets plenty of opportunity to show off his chops with physical comedy, beginning with his touch of whiplash from the accident. Becherer is sexy, sophisticated, and dripping with acerbic wit. Mike Egan and Amy Lacey play Ernie and Cookie Cusack, the next couple to ring the bell. Cookie is suffering with back pain, forcing her to carry around a pillow for back support. If Lacey has never suffered personally from back pain, she must have done some serious research in order to perfect her movement in this challenging role. Egan’s pompous therapist is the perfect foil for all of the disturbed guests. The last guests to arrive are Glenn and Cassie Cooper. Glenn (Lloyd Webber) is a stuffy candidate for state senate. Cassie (Andrea Johnson) has some serious doubts about Glenn’s campaign activities. Kent Phillips plays the streetwise Officer Ben Welch. Lidia Leon plays Officer Pudney.

The costumes, designed by Lindsey Humphries, are fabulous. Each of the ladies has a distinct style, and the accessories for the guys are spot on. Teresa Miller is listed as Costume Assistant. Also contributing as members of the design team are Assistant Director Kelly Baxter, Producer Jessie Johnson, Stage Manager Nadine Donnelly, Master Carpenter & Set Designer Bill Walsh, Light Designer Eleanor McCalpin, Sound Designer & Sound Tech Doug Latham, Prop Designer Kathy Snyder, Lighting Tech Kaitlyn Compton, and Photographer Jennifer Lee.

Successful production of a farce requires precise teaming. Adair has shaped the timing to incorporate the quirks of each of these memorable characters, resulting in a show that never drags. The laughs start in the first scene and continue straight through to curtain calls. I can confirm the “rumors” that anyone who misses this production will regret it. Go to mckinneyrep.org or call 214.544.4630 to get your tickets for the final weekend of McKinney Repertory Theatre’s Rumors at the McKinney Performing Arts Center. Friday and Saturday evening’s shows are at 8 pm; matinee on Saturday at 2 pm. Visit mckinneyrep.org for ticket information. 


Audience Rating: PG-13, adult language

Accessible seating: Available

Hearing Devices: Not available

Sensory Friendly Performance: Not available

Production Sound Level: Comfortable volume level

Noises or Visuals to Prepare For: One muffled gunshot sound, and sounds of breaking glass offstage

Running Time: 2 hours including 15 minute intermission

Experience Live Theater!

Glynda Welch








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