A Blog Review by Emma Beckers
Liz Aber as Sylvia, Marianne Dell'Aquila as Marjorie, Caitlyn Swartz as Dierdre, Brad Briddes as Clarke, Sam Levy as Beau
The Cottage went up this weekend and it did not disappoint. From start to finish, there were laughs abounding, facial expressions galore, and enough twists and turns to make you think you were on a roller coaster. The show is a fast paced and lively jaunt one morning in the English countryside in a lovely cottage and its zany inhabitants.
Directed by Thomas Rush, who formerly directed Over The River And Through The Woods, he brings out the humor in every gesture, wink, nod, cigarette hiding place, and even does a cameo! You can tell by the level of rapport between the actors that careful attention was paid to ensure that the audience feels like they are part of the action. Even the pre-show music has that Victorian feel.
Liz Aber as Sylvia, Thomas Rush Director /Cameo
Producer Jane Spigel, house manager Cathy Zeller, and props designer Heidi Swartz did a phenomenal job of decorating the cottage and the lobby with a dazzling array of flowers, akin to the Philadelphia Flower show. It truly added a country ambiance to the entire experience.
The set was built by Emma & Jeffory Beckers with some inspiration from English cottages. The Victorian era is such a rich period, so wainscoting and warm, rich colors accent the set. Corbels over the large bay window accent the outside view, making the cottage seem cozy. The idea was to bring a homey feel to the set, which is topped off with a wonderful Victorian couch and just takes you back in time.
So besides looking stunning, the cast is also extremely talented. Liz Aber, as Sylvia, opens the show, sassily shaking her shoulders and making sexy poses as she waits for Beau to exit the bathroom. Her facial expressions and clear enjoyment of the role shine through as she is a delight to watch.
Liz Aber as Sylvia,
Beau, played by Sam Levy, enters looking dapper in a silk bathrobe and it is clear that he is a man in charge of his life and enjoying his tryst with Sylvia. Sam and Liz play off each other in a flirty way and you have to wonder if they aren't actually a couple. They share genuine laughs and mock surprises, which are so fun to see.
Liz Aber as Sylvia, & Sam Levy as Beau
Next on is Marianne Dell'Aquila, playing Marjorie, entering and quite, quite pregnant. She emits a constant state of annoyance with Beau and Sylvia her tone and slight snarky remarks give her character a bit of pip and exasperation.
Following Marianne is Beau's brother, Clarke, played by Brad Briddes. He flows in with an ease and determination about his character. You truly believe that he loves Marjorie and his body mannerisms and looks of surprise are a delight.
Marianne Dell'Aquila as Marjorie Brad Briddes as Clarke,
Not to be left out enter Dierdre, played by Caitlyn Swartz. She brings an amazing amount of physical humor and her facial expressions are priceless. Her interactions and dancing with Sylvia are a sight to see and you will laugh out loud at their antics.
Caitlyn Swartz as Dierdre
Last, but by no means least, the final piece of our triple love triangle appears. Richard, played by Aaron Wexler. He is a quiet and smart man, Aaron makes you really feel the sadness and despair that he had suffered through his life. He clutches his hat and you can feel his emotions right on his sleeve.
Liz Aber as Sylvia, Aaron Wexler as Richard
There is a clever use of colored costumes to help clear up which couples are together, well at least they were together! So keep an eye out for this nice choice in costuming.
Overall, this show provided laughs almost every minute, the physical humor was outstanding, and if you miss this show, well you will be sad you did. There is one weekend left, so get your tickets now and come and enjoy The Cottage.
Performances remaining:
February 7 at 7:30pm
February 8 at 2pm and 7:30pm
February 9 at 2pm
All Photos Courtesy of Colleen Algeo Photography
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