Review: Allen Contemporary Theatre brings chaos with A FLEA IN HER EAR.

A Flea in Her Ear

A new version of Gerges Feydeau’s Farce by David Ives

Directed by Eric Levy

Produced by Allen Contemporary Theatre, Mikey Abrams, Realtor and Allen Americans Professional Hockey Club

Reviewed by: Sara Jones

What could be more fun than simultaneous miscommunication, mistaken identities, and mismatched libidos? Add in multiple doors, a room with a very unique bed, and a cast full of actors who have impeccable timing, and you’ll find you have A Flea in Her Ear! 

Right out of the gate there are people popping in and out of doors, full of confusion - this show is high energy from beginning to end. Is Victor (David Noel) having an affair or is his loss of amorousness towards his wife, Raymonde (Heather Shin), due to something less sinister? Can Raymonde and her good friend Lucienne (Kathleen Vaught) trick him into meeting up with a mysterious woman? What kind of people frequent the Frisky Puss Hotel, anyhow? Victor sends his willing and eager friend Tournel (Jim Bloomingdale) to investigate.

Director Eric Levy has orchestrated the chaos that ensues with a masterful hand – the characters may be fully confused but the audience is in on it all and the cast makes the madness look seamless. There are also wonderful characters throughout. There’s Camille Chandebise (Grant Palmore) – a nerdy guy with an awful speech impediment – who’s being chased after by the saucy Antoinette (Laura Jennings). Oh but she’s married to the easily duped and often flustered Etienne (Darius Moore)! But they all need to watch out for the bigger-than-life, sword and dagger wielding Don Carlos Homenides de Histangua (David Colville)! From the ridiculousness of Martin Mussey’s Dr. Finache to the door mouse like qualities of Jim Richmond’s Baptiste and everyone in between, this cast is an absolute pleasure to watch.

The beautiful and modular set was designed by Chris Berthelot, built by Bill Wash and painted by scenic artist Kasey Bush. Along with costume design by Ella McHugh, there’s no question you’re in 1960’s Paris! 

A Flea in Her Ear opened to a sold-out crowd! This show runs through July 16th – grab your tickets while you can! You don’t want to miss this hilarious farce.

Support local theater!

Sara Jones

Audience Rating: PG-13

Run Time: 2hr 40 min (including two 15 min intermissions)

Accessible Seating: Available 

Hearing Devices: Unavailable

Sensory Friendly Performance: Not available

ASL Performance: Not available

Production Sound Level: Comfortable volume

Noises or Visuals to Prepare For: Some foul language, sexual innuendo

Photos by Grant Palmore