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By JAMES HARLEY, Special to The State
Review published Tuesday, March 21, 2006
White trash was never this hilariousBy JAMES HARLEYSpecial to The StateTrue magic in live theater is an elusive thing, as it depends on the harmonic convergence of so many individuals and variables. However, when a group of skilled actors really enjoy the roles they are playing, that magic can seem almost effortless.
Such is the case with Workshop Theatre's production of Del Shores' trashy comedy, 'Sordid Lives.'
Loosely centered around the funeral of a white-trash mother in a small Texas town, the story ties together the sordid lives of the surviving family members as they emerge from their skeleton-packed closets to attend the ceremony. Through their relationships and experiences we are reminded of the almost universal necessity of accepting, with love, the sometimes dysfunctional idiosyncrasies of our own families.
Director Greg Leevy has assembled an exceptional cast, led by Dewey Scott-Wiley as Sissy, the frazzled, beehived sister of the deceased. Scott-Wiley's characterization is flawless both vocally and physically, and she sets the stage for comedy with her first appearance, eliciting a robust round of laughter before even speaking a word.
Becky Hunter and Elena Martinez-Vidal are solid as the sparring daughters Latrelle and LaVonda, as is Kathy Hartzog as Noleta, LaVonda's literal partner in crime. Paul Kaufmann gives the crowd exactly what they want in his portrayal of the disturbed yet charming 'Brother Boy,' who has spent his life locked in the small-town asylum due to family concerns regarding his embarrassing sexual conduct.
Among the supporting cast, songbird Robin Gottlieb enchants the listener with an outstanding vocal performance as Bitsy Mae, the troublesome local country singer, while Joe Morales offers some of his best work ever as Wardell, the redneck bartender with a heart of gold.
However, scene-stealing honors must go solidly to Monica Wyche as Juanita, the town tramp, whose drunken comic antics had the audience in stitches all night.
This show has a strong beginning, an engaging middle and a hilarious ending, and each scene is well-paced, leaving the viewer wanting more. It is perfectly costumed for comic effect by Clay Owens, who captures the 'trailer trash' aesthetic as if he lived it himself. Many of the evening's laughs belong to him and hair designer David Swicegood.
Of course, every show has a few flaws, and 'Sordid Lives' is no exception. But the sheer number of quality performances more than makes up for the shortcomings, and you'll likely leave the theater with a smile on your face, provided you don't mind a little profanity.
'Sordid Lives' plays through April 1 at Workshop Theatre. For reservations, call (803) 799-6551.
Harley holds a doctorate in theater history and criticism from the University of Texas at Austin.
Return to main Sordid Lives page
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