The Playmakers will open a delightful comedy, a show about rekindling love and how to do it with panache, on January 30. This theatrical Valentine gift by Don Gordon runs through Valentines’ Day,
February 14.
“Panache” isn’t your traditional man-meets-woman story. It isn’t your traditional comedy either. The story, which has real human emotion under the smart banter, is about breaking social roles and overcoming lost love, while all the time rediscovering passion…with flair! Both leading characters are unhappy (played by Theresa Dugan and Stan Starts). One has allowed himself to go to seed, the other uses the seed of an idea to change her life.
It all begins with mixed up license plates. The New York Times reviewer, Sarah Boxer, who loved the play when it had its premiere at Players theatre there, said: “How many times have you seen a married woman with a Mercedes take it upon herself to go to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles, track down a strange man in a dangerous Brooklyn neighborhood, march up to his apartment and try to bribe him to give up his license plate?”…and then argue over a word? That word being “Panache.”
This interesting premise sets the tone for an unpredictable story, filled with clever, engaging, honest and fresh dialogue. The real panache is in the energetic style and wit of the writing itself, creating characters that have spirit and vitality, even on occasion flamboyance! Tom Teel plays the gambler, Jumbo, who engages both Harry (Stan Starts) and Kathleen (Theresa Dugan) in some rather shady practices. In a flashback and a series of dream scenes, Irwin, Harry’s college friend played by
Joseph Wilhelm, III, becomes Harry’s conscience. Ashley Davidson reveals Laura, Harry’s lost love, the first one to tell him that he had panache.
“It isn’t often that a play comes across my desk directly from the playwright that meets our play selection standards say Suzanne Boles, director. “Sam and Laura” back in 2012 was one, and “Panache” by Don Gordon is another. When the first few lines have you laughing and reading more, you know this one has to be included in the season. It’s a great Valentine’s present for our actors and for our community. It can make a great evening or afternoon with your Valentine– a spouse, partner, date, parent or friend, or even a child if they are in mid-school or high school.”
“Panache” opens January 30 and runs through February 14, weekends only. Tickets are $15 for Adults and $8 for students (mid-school and high school only, please). Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7:30 pm and Sunday matinees at 2:00. Doors open 30 minutes prior to show time.
You can leave a necessary reservation or a message at (918) 786-8950. A volunteer will return your call within 24 hours. Reservations are necessary this time of year so you can be notified if weather demands a cancellation. You can reserve, also, by emailing groveplaymakers@yahoo.com or by purchasing your tickets online at groveplaymakers.com. Stay connected on Facebook at Grove Playmakers Theatre.
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