The award-winning East Lynne Theater Company has seen many successes since its founding in 1980, but none like “Arsenic and Old Lace.” Although first produced on Broadway in 1941 by Howard Lindsay and Russel Crouse, Joseph Kesselring’s comedy is still the most produced play in this country today. Yes – It’ just that good!
An excerpt from a recent review in Exit Zero: “This is one of the funniest productions in years. The large cast has a great time with this zany comedy and everyone is terrific in their parts.” Look for Terry Teachout’s review in The Wall Street Journal in the near future.
The play is about the Brewster family. Two sisters populate their cellar with “acceptable” lodgers. One nephew thinks he’s Teddy Roosevelt, another is running from the law and the third nephew is a theater critic. Many are familiar with the Frank Capra movie starring Cary Grant.
For ELTC, Gayle Stahlhuth is directing and Robert LeMaire is the assistant director. Both are also in the show. Others in the cast who have previously worked for ELTC are Suzanne Dawson, Morgan J. Nichols, Thomas Raniszewski and Scott Harrison. New to ELTC are Paul Battiato, Jennifer Flynn, Bob Reader, Jeff Sharkey and Kegan Witzki.
“Arsenic and Old Lace” runs through Sept. 1, Wednesdays through Saturdays at 8 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church of Cape May, 500 Hughes St. Reservations are strongly recommended. Tickets range from $20-$35 and ages 12 and under free. For information and reservations, call (609) 884-5898, email eastlynneco@aol.com or visit www.eastlynnetheater.org.