Review: MainStage Irving- Las Colinas' "HOW THE OTHER HALF LOVES is fast-paced, high-energy and sheer entertainment."

How the Other Half Loves

By Alan Ayckbourn

Directed by B.J. Cleveland

Audience Rating: PG-13 (adult themes, mild language)

Running Time: 2 hours one 15-minute intermission

Accessible Seating: Available

Hearing Devices: Not Available

Sensory-friendly Showing: Not Available

ASL Showing: Not Available

Production Sound/Lighting Level: Comfortable

Noises and Visuals to Prepare For: drinking

Reviewed by Eddy Herring

Picture it. Two couples.  The wife of one having an affair with the husband of the other. To keep their secret, they create a twisted story about another couple who are innocently thrown into the mix after being invited to dinner on separate nights at each couple’s homes. What follows is a hilarious convergence of misunderstandings, lies, and complete chaos that will leave you in stitches. How the Other Half Loves by Alan Ayckbourn is fast-paced, high-energy and sheer entertainment.

Director B.J. Cleveland has orchestrated a well-timed roller coaster ride with six seasoned actors who never miss a beat. The set, designed by the team of Tom Ortiz, Joe Morris, and Simon Kowalski, depicts a perfect blend of the apartments…one with tasteful, more upscale interior and one that is less kept and plain. The two rooms blend beautifully allowing for quick, seamless transitions in the action.  Costumes by Michael A. Robinson are perfect for each character, and Hank Baldree keeps everyone in the best light.

Frank (Blair Mitchell) and Fiona (Laura Sosnowski) are married and live comfortably in their well decorated, very organized apartment. Frank is a bit neurotic and Fiona rushes around to keep everything in order while covering her secret affair with Bob (Eric Joshua Valle) who works for Frank and lives with his over-burdened stay-home wife Teresa (Caitlin Whitley) and their infant son. Bob is self-absorbed and contributes little to housework and care of the baby, leaving Teresa to manage the home and becoming increasingly curious as to why Bob is always out so late. Tensions grow and both couples share great chemistry and play well against each other.  

The innocents, William and Mary (Matthew Good and Rebecca Litsey), inject great energy into the action from their very first entrance. They are oblivious to what is going on and their more wholesome demeanors and reactions are a great contrast from the others as they expertly jump from scene to scene, navigating the two dinners. It is fun to watch everyone shift back and forth as the story unravels. Great work from the whole ensemble!

How the Other Half Loves runs through January 31.  Tickets are available at the door or at irvingartscenter.com

Go see the show!

Eddy