By WILLIAM THIESS
william@du2.byu.edu
'Saving Grace' combines an energetic cast and lots of laughs for an entertaining playhouse experience.
'Saving Grace' is a lively three-act comedy about several people's lives coming together in a most unexpected manner. During an evening spent together in this Manhattan apartment complex, you will quickly find that almost anything can happen in a 'New York minute.'
Georgiana Deming plays the role of Grace Larkin, the reclusive and nervous secretary of Walter Chepple, played by Karl Young. One cold winter evening, after giving Grace a ride home, Walter invites himself up to her apartment. Grace feels very uneasy about the advances Walter is making. They make some uncomfortable conversation until Grace tries to relax the tension by having a few drinks.
Just when you think you know where the play is heading, Alex Kelly, the telephone repairman played by Jon Liddiard, shows up. Grace works herself into a frenzy, thinking the repairman is a burglar.
She soon however gets caught up in all the excitement and becomes charmed by this 'professional thief.' Alex realizes what is going on and leads her to believe that he really is a thief.
Soon after this fiasco develops, Grace's relative, Harriet Larkin, and her Russian evangelist fiance, Gregor Vanitzky -- played by Kathy Young and John Gholdston, respectively -- pay Grace a surprise visit, adding to the hilarious frenzy and confusion of the evening.
Expect the unexpected as these clueless characters fumble through the outlandish events of the evening. Breakups, hookups, and silly arguments are all part of the fun.
The Springville Playhouse provides an intimate feeling with both cast and set. The audience sits close to the set in a wrap-around style, creating a feeling of involvement with the storyline and the actors.
'Saving Grace' is showing at The Springville Playhouse this Friday and Saturday. Admission is $5 for adults and $4 for students.