I totally loved the Hampton Theatre Company’s production of A Comedy of Tenors at the Quogue Community Hall because it had me in stitches for most of the evening. The play, which was written by Ken Ludwig and is directed by Diana Marbury, has continued into its second week packing in the crowds and having them leave completely entertained. No need to worry about falling asleep or yawning through this action packed production with punch lines every couple of seconds because it has a razzle dazzle quality that will keep your total attention on the stage.
Normally I pick one or two actors who drive the show but with A Comedy of Tenors I just can’t do that because there are stellar performances by the whole cast along with what I will call a magical theater event that will blow you away as it did me unexpectedly. I am not reveling the reason so as to not spoil the surprise.
Terrence Fiore as “Saunders,” the promoter, is great. He has a forceful dignified comedic presence throughout the show. A favorite of mine, Matthew Conlon plays “Max” with his usual fire, amazing energy and great physical acting skills.
Catherine Maloney is playfully effective as “Maria,” with her movements and accent adding to the quality of this “farce production.” Edward A. Brennan plays Maria’s husband and Grand Tenor, Tito. Mr. Brennan has a magical gravitas on stage and this role seems to bring it out. He is a huge engine in the success of this show.
Amanda Griemsmann plays “Mimi,” the daughter of Tito and Marie. Amanda adds some youth perspective along with some very thought provoking lines. She too has great comedic acting skills. The golden boy “Carlo” is masterly handled by Connor Antico, who surprised me with his myriad of talent. Lastly, Cesa Pledger portrays “Racon,” a Russian opera star. She has a flair for scene stealing physical acting and quite frankly is a joy to watch act!
The magic of a great show is the flow of energy on the stage. A Comedy of Tenors has that flow along with real authentic punch line comedic prowess. Again, both the Hampton Theatre Company and Diana Marbury has brought a quality show to the Quogue Community Hall and has given its audiences something to really applaud for.
I truly loved this production.
A Comedy of Tenors runs through Saturday, November 10. Shows are on Thursdays and Fridays at 7 p.m., Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2:30 p.m. Tickets range from $10 to $30. There will also be special dinner and theater packages available in collaboration with the Westhampton, Southampton, Hampton Bays and Quogue libraries, as well as a lunch and theater package offered with the Quogue Club at the Hallock House for the Saturday matinee on November 10.
Quogue Community Hall is located at 125 Jessup Avenue in Quogue. For more information, visit www.hamptontheatre.org.