Thursday, March 17, 2022

YOU HAVEN'T CHANGED A BIT AND OTHER LIES - review

 


          As Bette Davis famously once said, Old age isn't for sissies!” and this delightful revue certainly proves her point. The various trials and tribulations of old age are humorously illustrated by author Jerry Mayer, through scenes and songs by himself, and his son, Steve. In case you doubt it, some predictable limitations that come with old age are all told with humor and melody. Things such as: Where on earth did I park the car in this public garage? or I'm not hard of hearing, just preoccupied! or Don’t tell me it's time for Viagra!

          The six performers are divided into three couples, identified as Jewish, Irish, Italian, who are all planning to renew their marriage vows after 30-some years. This has raised their awareness of certain problems that are becoming troublesome. For example, the three wives are perplexed by having their once career-obsessed husbands now lurking, lounging, or hanging around the house every day. The three husbands are wondering why their once manly domination in life, work, and home is gone, and is this why they are starting to feel like they are becoming the weaker sex?

          Through a series of witty songs, the excellent cast share these dilemmas with the audience members. This brought much recognition laughter from the older folk attending. For younger people it's a hint of trials and tribulations to come, yet Mayer's message is clear - keep living and loving and don't put any limitations on what you can still accomplish. Hey, author Mayer is 90 and, after a career writing for many top TV shows, he's clearly not slowing down as here he is, onstage with live theater.

          Directed by Chris DeCarlo, who also performs, along with Rachel Galper, Kyle T. Heffner, Barbara Keegan, Evelyn Rudie and Tom Van Dyke. Musical accompaniment is by Steve Mayer. At Santa Monica Playhouse, 1211 4th Street, Santa Monica. Tkts: (310) 394-9779 ext.1, or theatre@SantaMonicaPlayhouse.com

 

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