One is reminded of a decadently rich French pastry— the kind
with delicious custard filling which goes down effortlessly.
But this is an illusion because while it seems on the surface to
be a totally silly farce, “The Ladies Man” requires precise
choreography and spilt second timing by true professionals or it
could not come off well at all.
“The Ladies Man,” adapted by Charles Morey from Georges
Feydeau’s 1889 French bedroom farce and beautifully staged by the
Creede Repertory Theatre Company at the Arvada Center, shows that
precision and attention to detail, as directed by Nagle Jackson.
And, the playwright’s wry look at human interactions affords almost
non-stop chuckles for the audience in Arvada’s Black Box Theatre,
which is small enough so one can see Suzanne’s eyes twinkle as she
contemplates a possibly dangerous liason and her Prussian husband
Gustav’s eyes expressing continual confusion. (His German word
order is priceless, although it takes a minute to tune in). Logan
Ernstthal, an experienced classical actor, has the skill needed to
not overplay this part, while adding little flourishes. Anne
Butler, Suzanne’s battle ax mama, does seem to overplay.
Central to the plot is Dr. Hercule Molineaux, whose attempt to
resolve a personal problem gets him involved in all sorts of
complex manipulations. Expert comical actor John Arp makes it look
effortless until one tries to keep track. His lightening-fast
monologues in Act II deserved the applause it brought. Chad
Anfador, as lisping friend Bassinet, who “lost his wife” at park,
weaves in and out of scenes and Laura Jo Trexler (a Heritage High
grad who is headed for graduate school in London) plays the
doctor’s perplexed young wife.
A standout is Jessica Jackson as the wants-to-be-naughty Suzanne
Aubin. Michael Bouchard is Etienne, the doctor’s busybody servant,
who hopes to interest a disinclined Marie (Jessica Baron) the
household’s cute little maid, who has her own story.
The carefully detailed 19th century set and costumes add greatly
enjoyment. (Be sure to pay attention to the ingenious set change in
Act II).
Doors slam continually, identities shift, costumes malfunction
and somehow, no one crashes into another actor during this light,
entertaining confection.
This production should introduce the excellent Creede Repertory
Theatre to a wider audience. A summer weekend in beautiful Creede
is a great experience, with spectacular scenery and the opportunity
to see two or even three well done plays in a few days.
If you go:
“The Ladies Man” adapted by Charles Morey from Georges Feydeau’s
1889 French farce staged by Creede Repertory Company, plays at the
Arvada Center through Oct. 31 in the Black Box theater, directed by
Nagle Jackson. Performances: 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays;
1 p.m. Wednesdays; 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Tickets start at
$35, 720-898-7200, www.arvadacenter.org. 6901
Wadsworth Blvd., Arvada.
