Wednesday, January 19, 2011

MLT Presents: "The Cemetery Club"



What if Steel Magnolias met The Golden Girls? You would have The Cemetery Club by Ivan Menchell. It follows the story of 3 longtime friends, who are all widows, each of whom is in a different stage of healing and moving on with her life. Though the play focuses on the dark subject of death, the story, dialogue and acting make this production lively and enjoyable. It is comedic, to be sure, with one-liners, and playful zingers, with a dramatic turn but not to much, as to ruin the fun.

MLT veterans, Judy Pittman and Linda Kerby along with newcomer Christal Lavery play the 3 widows, Doris, Ida and Lucille, bringing true dimension to each of their characters. Phil McGheechie plays Sam, who attracts the attention of most every widow he meets, including Mildred, played by Helen Hutchinson. The Cemetery Club is directed by Jerry Venis with Pam Catt as assistant director. It is scheduled for performances at the Coleman Theatre February 17 through 20th.