Say I Do to Drury Lane’s “Father of the Bride”
By Cate Rees-Hessel with Wes Hessel
“Father of the Bride” at Drury Lane Theatre is simply fabulous. Based on the films of the same name, this comedy is set in the 1950’s, with an absolutely beautiful set and lovely costumes. An actual wedding was happening the day we saw the play, and the atmosphere is festive and fun – the entrance to the theater is even decorated with wedding trim. The new seats in the theater are attractive and comfortable, too; Drury Lane is a marvelous theatergoing experience.
This show has an absolutely stellar cast, with amazing comic timing. In the title role is Joe Dempsey; he is extremely talented and realistic – anyone would want him as a dad. In large part because of Mr. Dempsey, the close of the first act is both expected and unexpected, completely hilarious. Aurora Penepacker (the bride-to-be Kay) and Rachel Sullivan (mom Ellie) are very believable, both very attractive on stage.
As the bride’s brothers, Kyle Ringley (Ben) and Charlie Long (Tommy) give very notable performances, the typical but realistic young men. Maya Hlava’s Peggy, the older brother’s girlfriend who wants a wedding of her own, is delightful, funny, and pretty. Dressmaker Mrs. Pulitzki, as portrayed by Jeannie Affelder, proves there are no small roles – she is on stage for a short time, but is memorable and true to character.
I can’t say enough good things about the caterer/wedding coordinator (Mr. Missoula) played by Ed Kross; his rendition is worth the price of admission – witty and just enough over the top to keep the audience in stitches. The groom is brought beautifully to life by Jake DiMaggio Lopez – handsome and true to life, never over playing his role. As Miss Bellamy, the put upon secretary of Mr. Banks given the arduous task of organizing the church only and reception place cards, Michele Vazaquez is enormously humorous, giving a flawless performance.
The rest of the cast ensemble are all amazing and credible, as well; even the stagehands who move the furniture in the coveralls of the caterer fit right in to the happenings and hijinks. Stage movement during the gift arrival and wedding reception prep is expertly executed with well practiced precision to uproarious perfection.
This is by far one of the most entertaining comedies with tender moments and well played hysteria. I highly recommend “Father of the Bride”; it’s time for you to say I do and get your tickets now, before the wedding balls ring for the last time May 31st – you are cordially invited to do so at www.drurylanetheatre.com.
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