"Rumors" Takes Center Stage with a Bang
Neil Simon’s play Rumors literally starts with a bang. In fact, this may be one of the few shows in Principia College history with this disclaimer printed in the program: “Attention: gunshots will be fired during this production.”
Of course, there was also full disclosure on the cover of the program that this play is a farce. Set in an upscale suburb of New York City at the home of the deputy mayor, chaos and, yes, rumors swirl on stage and off as actors in evening attire sort out the mysterious circumstances surrounding Charlie and Myra’s tenth wedding anniversary party. The mystery and hilarity is driven by the fact that the audience never actually meets Charlie or Myra. All the information learned about them is secondhand—and highly suspect.
Written at a time of personal challenge for playwright Neil Simon, Rumors explores how to look beyond pretentious appearances in order to separate fact from fiction and discover what’s really true. The result in Davis Theatre last weekend was a well-executed farce that brought down packed houses during all four performances.
Visiting professor Trish Schmit directed the outstanding ensemble cast, highlighted by Ben Frederick’s portrayal of Lenny, which included a pitch-perfect, six-minute monologue at the end of the play. Schmit says she chose Rumors primarily because of Simon’s comedic genius, and also because the play’s insightful discussion of the joy and pain of human relationships leaves the audience laughing. “This kind of comedy is one of the most difficult things to do well,” Schmit comments. “The cast has to work together as a team and be perfectly in sync to get the dialogue right. Watching the students rise to the occasion made all the hard work worthwhile. ”
Elaborating on all the effort involved, Schmit notes, “It took about 100 hours per person in the cast, staff, and crew to make this show happen. But even more than time, I’m so grateful for the quality of everyone’s love and dedication. It not only made this show a success. It was a gift.” Clearly the audience at Principia College agreed!