The Fox on the Fairway

By Ken Ludwig

Directed by Penny Elaine

Produced by Rover Dramawerks

Reviewed by Jenny Wood

In The Fox on the Fairway’s script, American playwright Ken Ludwig includes a foreword – a two page, single spaced, 10 point font dissertation on Farce as a genre and where exactly he hopes this play will land therein.

The play, he concludes, is an ode to the very specific style and tradition of English Farce. He writes:

I’ve written this play… as a reminder of the values this tradition embodies… innocence, humor, good sportsmanship, and honor. My hope is that it is still possible to come together in a darkened theater and embrace these values with a sense of joy.

In Rover Dramawerks’ production, Director Penny Elaine’s cast and design team do indeed embrace these values with a sense of joy.

As the theater darkens, we are briefly introduced to the star of the show - golf. Thereafter, our innocent young lovers Louise (Sara Parisa) and Justin (Brendan Tetter) breeze into the Quail Valley Country Club’s taproom.

The breeze becomes a whirlwind as Justin presents Louise with the first surprises of the day, and they celebrate with enthusiastic physicality until their boss Bingham (Audie Preston) interrupts to refocus on the actual task at hand: It is "Inter-Club Tournament Weekend," and for the first time in years Quail Valley might actually beat "Crouching Squirrel Golf and Racquet Club."

Emphasis on the word “might” because, naturally, the head of "Crouching Squirrel," Dickie (Jeff York), has some surprise reveals of his own, not the least of which are his fabulous sweaters (sourced by costume designer Heather Walker Shinn).

In a very satisfying tonal contrast to the bolder personalities surrounding him, Preston brings a gentility to Bingham reminiscent of the late Leslie Jordan. It’s a comfort and joy to watch, and sets up his primary scene partner - Laura Jennings - to shine as Pamela, who, as the vampy" Quail Valley Board President" and resident problem solver, is left to crisis-manage these bold personalities and keep everyone on course to victory. Together these two are a master class in comedic acting.

Indeed, Elaine has assembled a wholly skilled cast, but most notable is Rikki Sushaun as Muriel. Her arrival is simply an absolute treat. Keep an eye on her earrings for my favorite moment in the show.

Also of note are Geoffry Dail’s sound design in Act Two, the ability of Master Carpenter Kyle Chinn’s construction to withstand the physical comedy of this show, and Stage Manager Maddy Maslow’s seamless cameo.

The Cox Theater has a reputation for excellent air conditioning, so effective that blankets are made available for patrons. I mention this today, specifically, because as I sit here writing, the local forecast is oppressively hot and sunny for at least the next 10 days.

What a gift to be able to come together in a dark, air conditioned theater to embrace the values of humor and good sportsmanship with a sense of joy. Performances continue through August 19. Tickets can be found at roverdramawerks.com.

Audience Rating: PG-13 for alcohol and innuendo

Running Time: Two hours and 10 minutes including a fifteen minute intermission

Accessible Seating: Available

Hearing Devices: Not Available

Sensory Friendly Showing: Not Available

ASL Showing: Not Available

Noises and Visuals to Prepare For: None of note

Cheers!

Jenny