Director Gary Griffin is back in town and his new production of David Ives' new version of Georges Feydeau's classical farce A Flea in Her Ear , reminding us that laughter can cure all woes. There is just enough raunchiness, crossed paths and, of course, lots of doors (all farces need lots of doors) to make the show hysterical. What a start to The Chicago Shakespeare Theater's New Classics program!
The marvelous cast includes several seen performing the Bard's works in years past, many who have been in other local theaters, and some New York actors. Rick Hall takes on a double role of Victor and Poche and does so with great energy and speed; Kevin Gudahl, who can do anything on stage is the good doctor Finache; Timothy Edward Kane is a fine-tuned Romain Tournet, best friend to Victor who is also in lust for Victor's wife; Linda Hart is a dynamic Raymonde, Victor's wife, who has a "flea in her ear" as she suspects Victor has taken on a lover because of a package that was delivered. We later find out that this is truly a comedy of errors and "all's well that ends well"!
There are some standout performances in this production; notably, Ora Jones as Raymonde's best friend Lucienne Homenides de Histangua and Anthony Crivello as her husband Don Carlos produce another mix-up with hysterical results. Also of interest is the surprising performance by Rick Boynton (the Creative Producer for the Chicago Shakespeare Theater at Navy Pier) as Victor's nephew, and in a smaller role—the king of farce—Dale Benson, who can always steal a scene by making one word last two sentences. William Dick, Michelle Graff, Mattie Hawkinson Rian Jairell, Kathy Scambiatterra and the always reliable Bradley Mott round out this cast of characters, each making every little scene take on its own meaning (or innuendo), while coming together to create a theatrical experience that anyone will enjoy.
The cast plays on a great set by Daniel Ostling, under perfect lighting by Paul Miller and wearing delightful costumes by Mara Blumenfeld. Kudos to Melissa Veal for her wonderful wigs and make-up design as well.
A Flea in Her Ear
Navy Pier
through April 23rd
Tickets: $48- $65
Reservations: 312-595-5600 or online at
www.chicagoshakes.com
Alan Bresloff writes theater reviews in the Chicago area.
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