For those pondering an alternative to just another silver screen blockbuster at the local multi-plex, why not give live theater a try.
Currently, Theatre Northwest is presenting “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels” at downtown Tacoma’s Theatre on the Square.
Based on the popular 1988 comedy, “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels” is a musical that centers on two lovable con men, Lawrence (Aaron Lamb) and Freddy (Matthew Vail), who live on the French Riviera.
Lawrence is suave and sophisticated and makes his lavish living by talking rich ladies out of their money. Freddy, a small-time crook, humbly swindles women with fabricated stories about his grandmother’s failing health.
After the two cons meet on a train, they unsuccessfully attempt to work together only to find that this small French town is not big enough for them both.
They agree on a settlement - the first one to extract $50,000 from a young heiress named Christine Colgate (Rachael Boyer) wins and the loser must leave town. A hilarious battle of the cons ensues, with many twists and laughs along the way, which keeps the audience giggling, humming and tapping toes until the curtain drops.
The show takes place in the beautifully modern Theatre on the Square. The theater seats 302 people comfortably, however, show up for the Saturday afternoon showing and one could expect a smaller crowd of seniors, couples and families with children.
The set design is what one might imagine at any full-scale production. Cascading balconies, faux-plants and a large background screen transformed the Tacoma stage into a scene from the French Rivera. One special treat was the live nine-piece orchestra, which filled the venue and gave life to each musical montage.
Although the play was written with the 1980s in mind, the cast had no problem modernizing the lyrics, by peppering reflections on current events and local cities.
Those lyrics shined through Lamb and Vail’s vibrant onstage chemistry. They were able to highlight not only the rivalry of the two main characters, but also a sort of “student/ mentor” relationship, too.
Yes, they are just a pair of dirty, rotten, scoundrels but after being serenaded with several catchy songs throughout the first act, you begin to feel a sort of kinship toward these lovable villains.
Another noteworthy performance is Eric Polani Jensen’s portrayal of Lawrence’s right-hand-man, Andre. Jensen, the only cast member who is also a member of the Actors Equity Association, puts on a hilarious performance of the French police sergeant, who helps the suave Lawrence commit his crimes.
“Dirty Rotten Scoundrels” is a treat that should help break up the monotony of multi-plex mania. And for those who still need their film fix after the show, the 1988 movie version of the play, starting Steve Martin, Michael Caine and Glenne Headly, is still an option.
Tickets for Theatre Northwest’s “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels” are available through March 7. Cost is $29 and $39. For more information call (253) 591-5894 or 1 (800) 291-7593.
