Published: June 20, 2008 07:58 am            

Circa ‘21’s ‘Empty Nest’ is full of laughs

As a conscientious reviewer, I feel it’s only fair to warn my readers that I am biased when it comes to the subject of this delightful production from Circa ‘21 Dinner Playhouse in Rock Island, Ill.

We all know some well-meaning parents who believe in financially cradling their children for as long as they need it. Others maintain the kids will always “need it” until the well runs very dry.

In Lawrence Roman’s Comedy “Empty Nest,” we get to take a peek into the frustrated lives of Stanley and Helene Butler as they vacillate between those two opposing philosophies. Set in the riotous 1980s, this charmer is a surprisingly deeper look into what happens when adult children move back home.

Of course, hilarity ensues (somewhat predictably) and the plotline is not very surprising in and of itself. But it’s fun and slightly risqué — completely entertaining. The only cringing comes when you see the all-too-real set with all the gaudy colors and patterns. And I defy anyone to explain the clothes and hair from the 80s — did we really wear that stupid stuff?

Vrenda Lee plays Helene Butler — the harried and annoyingly tired mom. But believe me, when this mama finally decides to kick her babies out of the nest, nobody’s gonna argue — whether they know how to fly or not. Vrenda Lee also appeared as Vera Sanders in the most recent Circa ‘21 offering, “Smoke on the Mountain,” where she previously played a loving and supportive matriarch. However, these two mamas could not be more opposite and you would never guess it’s the same actress that brings them both to life. In fact, if Vera knew about the attempted-but-interrupted behavior of Helene and Stanley (Brad Hauskins) right on the living room floor, I’m sure she would sternly disapprove.

Stanley — the amorous husband is anxious for private time with his wife but the prodigal children are cramping his style. Hauskins does very well in the part — especially considering his rehearsal time was much shorter than the rest of the cast and he is much the same age as his stage sons. In spite of that, his portrayal nails that of a good father out-frustrated only by his wife.

Tristan Layne Tapscott deftly plays college-bound Keith, who seems innocent enough until he sends home a scantily-clad “leg-warmer” to stay in his room while he’s at college. It seems he assured her his parents wouldn’t mind because “they’re really cool.”

Adam Michael Lewis plays the part of Michael (the oldest son) so well you want to rush the stage and kick him out yourself. He’s so whiney and weak, a grown man who has decided to drop out of life and go back to his carefree childhood. And why not? The fridge is stocked, the sheets are clean, and the hot tub is waiting. Never mind that he’s blowing off a dream career and a wonderful girl who loves him. Lewis is genuinely funny and extremely obnoxious in this role… perfect!

But even his character pales in comparison to his younger brother, whose penchant for one-night stands has finally gotten him kicked out of his home and his marriage. He suffers a little and wonders why apologizing wasn’t good enough.

However, the moments of self-examination are short-lived and he soon finds a way to console himself with the floozy staying in his little brother’s bedroom. Eddie Staver III does such a good job with this character, it’s impossible to like him — excellent.

The afore-mentioned floozy is Janie Johnson, brilliantly played by Ashley Catherine Schmitt, and she literally steals the show. When she takes the stage, it’s like additional lighting has been switched on. She channels a flaky homeless girl from a dysfunctional family with a heart of gold and an innate sense of right and wrong. Although she doesn’t come to her conclusions the same way most of us do, she has a knack for jiggling her way to the truth of a situation. She surprises us with unexpected purity emanating from a racy wardrobe and putty-knife-applied make-up. Schmitt is in phenomenal condition and I have never seen a more limber performance. Wow!

All in all, this show combines the best qualities of a No. 1 sitcom with surprising moments of drama. Patrick Kearns directs a fast-paced second act and should thank his lucky stars for Ashley Catherine Schmitt’s Janie — even though the entire cast really is very talented.

There may be as many different opinions on the subject of “letting the kids move back home” as there are… well, parents! But one thing we can all agree on is Circa ‘21’s “Empty Nest” explores those issues in a heart-warming and hilarious story that never gets dull.

“Empty Nest” runs through July 19. Call the box office at Circa '21 in Rock Island for ticket information at (309) 786-7733, ext 2, or go to www.circa21.com

Circa ‘21’s “Summer Gas Giveaway” will be in effect only during the “Empty Nest” run. When first-time customers with parties of two to 11 call to make reservations, they must mention the “Summer Gas Giveaway.” The theater will determine the total distance driven and will base the MPG on 30 miles per gallon with the gas price at $4 per gallon. Guests will be paid in cash upon arrival to the theater. One refund per party and the maximum is $25.

Only full-price ticket buyers are eligible. See complete rules at www.circa21.com. See you at the theater.



Jami R. Smith is an advertising account representative with the Clinton Herald.

        

• Click to discuss this story with other readers on our forums.