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Humor reigns at opening
night of 'Lend Me A Tenor'
BY CARINA HUME
NEWS-REVIEW STAFF WRITER
The setting is a
distinctively decorated hotel suite in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1943.
The famous tenor, Tito Morelli, is scheduled to play Otello in the Saturday
evening performance. He's late. Arriving with his unhappy wife,
Maria, and an upset stomach, Tito believes a nap will cure all. After
consuming an unhealthy mixture of medicine and wine, he is unable to perform.
Saunders, the selfish businessman in charge, plans a clever ruse to save his
profits and the show. Bedlam occurs when Tito recovers without the
knowledge of a replacement version of himself.
"Lend Me a Tenor," the fast-paced, entertaining play by Ken Ludwig, is
being performed by the Little Traverse Civic Theatre. Directed by veteran
actor Gary Albert with the assistance of Larry Willis, the performance is laden
with humorous double entendres.
As Tito, Eric Grandstaff, in a welcome return to the stage, is phenomenal, and
his talent is equally matched by Karen Nemecek in her role as Maria, his
wife. They expertly capture the qualities of a stereotypical Italian
couple.
Doug Flewelling is well-dressed, arrogant and perfectly suited for the role of
Saunders.
The nuances apparent in Charles Brecheisen's role of Max are effectively
displayed as we first sympathize, then grow impatient with this meek young man
in his sweater vest and bow tie. When shown in a different light, we
witness a confident and romantic man who eventually claims exactly what he's
always wanted.
With stylish clothing, extravagant jewels and perfectly coifed (most of the
time) hairdos, the American women are attentive (to the Italian) and easily
deceived.
As Maggie, star-struck daughter of Saunders, Rebecca Sand-Dugas masterfully
switches between coy and bold in her attempts to be with Tito. Julie
Stoppel plays Julia, the chairman of the Opera Guild, who is repeatedly rebuffed
in her attempts to corral Tito, even while wearing her diamond tiara.
As an aspiring star, Diana, played by Heater McCuen, is audacious and uses her
seductive charms in the hopes of career advancement.
And Michael Deschermeier as the eternally upbeat and persistent bellhop is
delightful with his constant song and veracity.
Although tastefully risqu |