The Georgetown Palace Theatre opened Funny Little Thing Called Love June 21 on the Playhouse Stage. The play is written by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope and Jamie Wooten. The trio specialize in writing light theater comedies with strong roles for women.
“Under a full moon on this unpredictable night of romance, these four rollicking tales take you on an around-the- globe journey of unexpected and hilarious twists and turns,” the Jones, Hope, Wooten website promises. “Open your heart to romantic mayhem and come join the fun! By the time the evening is over and the moon works its magic, love will conquer all and your sides will ache from laughter!”
Funny Little Thing has aptly been compared to Love, American Style. The comedy television series aired 1969 to 1974 and featured some of the earliest work of future stars. Each episode included multiple stories of contemporary romantic entanglements.
The playful format works well in the four sketches of Funny Little Thing Called Love. A slick Dallas Romeo veers into a trap set by frustrated romantic partners who are intent on glorious retribution. Across the ocean vacationing gal pals crash a Hawaiian honeymoon. Then, in a London bistro, the budding attraction of two restrained Brits is interrupted by a boisterous American tourist. Finally, in Manhattan, a man’s well planned marriage proposal goes wildly off-track.
Director Lynn Beaver brings 30 years of Austin-area theater experience. She is challenged with developing twenty eight unique characters from a cast of eight in settings that move across the globe. Ms. Beaver pulls the ambitious, multi-layered production together and makes it work.
Female empowerment and solidarity are common threads. Lisa Shelton is hilarious as a low energy, worn down, reluctant waitress. Kim Rubin subtlety plays an eloquent Brit in contrast to a loud, frisky American perfectly portrayed by Christina Little-Manley. Mikayla Hinds was spot on as a flashy, tacky Texas type. Sandy D’ Amato aptly brings to life the production’s only grounded character.
The bumbling male characters are badly in need of enlightenment. Mike Ragan expertly portrays the ridiculous male in a midlife crisis. Erik Powers brings laughs in the unflattering role of a sleazy, two timer and Joe Moe was very good as Ferlin, the stereotypical, macho boyfriend.
There’s a lot going on and the high energy playlets move along briskly. Each cast member plays several characters. Costume changes include colorful island tourist outfits, flashy cowgirl boots, straight laced outfits and hot to trot get up. Big hair in all its glory rules. There’s even a tap dancing singing telegram girl dressed as a giant heart and a man on a windowsill in a superhero costume.
Those who remember Love, American Style will see the similarities and perhaps feel a bit nostalgic. Funny Little Thing Called Love is set in modern times but harkens to a time when cheeky, mildly randy characters pushed boundaries and uncomplicated vignettes concluded with surprisingly sweet resolutions. It all adds up to great fun.
Reserve your tickets for Funny Little Thing Called Love today. Go to GetPalaceTickets.com to select your seats. The production runs through July 21 at the Playhouse Stage, 216 West Eighth Street, Georgetown.