IN REVIEW

The Last Night of Ballyhoo knocks your socks off

 

BY DIANE JOHNSON

KONK LIFE STAFF WRITER

 

Sassy and compelling “The Last Night at Ballyhoo” will knock your socks off. You know you’ve experienced a fine production when all your worries slip away as you immerse yourself in the show, now playing at The Red Barn Theatre.

Alfred Uhry is a brilliant playwright who has won an Academy Award, a Tony Award and the Pulitzer Prize for dramatic writing. The Last Night at Ballyhoo is his second play in the Atlanta Trilogy. Driving Miss Daisy was his first in the trilogy and why he won the Pulitzer. Joy Hawkins did a fabulous job directing this dramatic holiday production with sensitivity and finesse. She masterfully integrated new cast members with experienced ones creating a seamless fit.

Lisa Elena Monda made her Key West debut and delivered a lively performance as Lala Levy, a high-spirited young woman in love with Clark Gable and Gone with the Wind. Jessica Jackson, another newcomer to Key West, took on the role of Sunny Freitag, a college girl challenged by her professors to think outside the box. Laurie Breakwell’s performance is always a delight. She was perfectly cast for the part of Reba Freitag. Laurie’s comic timing is extraordinary and reminded me of Gracie Allen.

Karen Grant let her emotions run free in the role of Boo Levy, the matriarch of the extended family. Her acting was spot on as the critical yet caring mother and sister. Kaleb Smith is back at the Red Barn after a hiatus. He played the part of Sylvan Peachy, a nice rich Jewish Louisiana boy who loves to tease and have fun. Rock Soloman’s performance reflected the values of those Jewish immigrants who were not born into money. His role as Joe Farkas was the portrayal of someone who has embraced and is proud of his Jewish heritage. Seth Yates played Uncle Adolph Freitag, the hard working guy who displayed the patience of a saint living with four women.

The setting is Atlanta in 1939 on Habersham Street, where only two Jewish families live. It is Christmastime and the Levy’s have a tree aka Hanukkah bush in their front parlor. They are also preparing for Ballyhoo, an end of year celebration the Jewish community has invented for their young adults. Being Jewish can be a challenge, whether you were born in the U.S. or came over from Germany or Eastern Europe. We all have the need to “fit in” but to deny your roots is the real tragedy. When the performance ended, I had tears of joy in my eyes.

RJ Conn did an admirable job with the set and lighting and Carmen Rodriguez delivered period appropriate costumes and props. I loved the women’s shoes!

Treat yourself to the unique and captivating production of the Last Night of Ballyhoo, now at the Red Barn Theatre until Jan. 17. The Theatre is located at 319 Duval between Eaton and Caroline in old town Key West. Tickets are available on-line at www.redbarntheatre.com or by calling the box office at 305-296-9911.

 

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