By Eva Trieger
SOLANA BEACH, California – In Season 27, North Coast Rep presented one of the funniest comedies I have ever seen. If I remember correctly the show had to be extended and audiences could not get enough of Marc Camoletti’s hilarious farce, Don’t Dress for Dinner. The year was 2008, and the US was experiencing an economic crisis. Well, the timing of Robin Hawdon’s adaptation of the same play in 2024 could not be more appreciated. Under Christopher Williams’ direction, theatre patrons have found something to laugh about and distract us from the current climate.
Is it over the top? Yes. Is it raucous? Yes. Are the physical comedy and innuendos suggestive and bordering on lewd? Yes, a thousand times, yes. Will it take your mind off your troubles? A resounding Yes!
The first act is one hour long and act two clocks in around 45 minutes. And while I did not conduct a laugh-o-meter, I’d venture a guess that no two-minute interval elapsed without something giggle-worthy.
The plot line involves romantic entanglements that are complex and convoluted with many “delicate situations” and equally numerous alibis and half-truths….okay, sixteenth-truths, okay, outright lies, if I’m being honest. But it all works to engage the audience and strengthen the relationships. Marital bonds are tested and strained. Romances are explored and exposed and storytelling and extemporaneous explanations lend to hilarity and absurdity.
The standout cast members are Brian Robert Burns who plays Bernard, the philandering husband of Jacqueline (Kim Morgan Dean). Both delivered exquisite performances. This, like all good farces, requires an amazing sense of timing and a great deal of facial expressiveness. Veronica Dunne, who played Suzette, the cook/lover/niece was delightful. Her delivery of this very comprehensive role was nothing short of outstanding. I would say this actor is Broadway bound. Brandon J. Pierce (Robert), Katy Tang (Suzanne), and Jared Van Heel (George) all performed with obvious delight and synergy.
The beautiful set showcasing a French country house outside of Paris, was skillfully created by award-winning Marty Burnett. I’m quite certain that Elisa Benzoni had fun with the costumes, particularly the 20,000-francs Chanel coat. Don’t worry, Robert is on the hook for a replacement!
Don’t Dress for Dinner must close on Sunday, August 18. Contact North Coast Rep Theatre box office for tickets at northcoastrep.org or call 858.481.1055 for tickets to this production and subscriptions for Season 43.
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Eva Trieger is a freelance writer specializing in coverage of the arts.