Playwright Gary Richards must have had places like Lakeside in mind when he penned the script for the romantic comedy “Second Summer.”
Here are situations we all see or have experienced in our retirement years. The loss of a longtime spouse sometimes leads us down an unexpected path to self awareness and a renewed view of our own existence and happiness in our senior years.
The final production of the Lakeside Little Theatre (LLT) season centers on Reginald Herring who cannot imagine much of a life for himself after his wife’s death. He sells his dry cleaning business in Brooklyn and expects to merely exist for his remaining years in God’s Waiting Room, a euphemism for a retirement community in Florida. Comedy ensues when the ladies in his new neighborhood discover the arrival of a potentially available man and, as competition for his attentions begins, an unexpected revelation from the widow of his long time friend complicates his life.
The cast of “Second Summer,” from left: Judy Long, Greg Clarke, Richard Miller, Mary J Hunt and Florette Schnelle.
Paul Kloegman, a seasoned actor and director, gets the very best out of his cast and technical crew. The scenes jump around to different places and times and under his direction the transitions are smooth, without confusion for the audience. Originally from England and educated at the Runcorn Academy of Dramatic Art, Kloegman has directed and/or acted on four continents and has more than 40 years of theater experience.
Richard Miller debuts as the main character, “Reginald Herring.” While new to LLT, he has amassed an impressive resume in his acting career going back to 1976. His portrayal of a widower with no zest for life, just biding his time until he dies, then emerging into a man with renewed interest and self worth is enjoyable to watch. This role affords Miller the chance to show off his comedic and serious acting talents. We hope to see him in more shows.
Florette Schnelle has a good time playing the “femme fatale” character “Sheila Haskett,” who awakens buried physical and emotional feelings in Reginald. She is a perfect fit for the flirty and seductive next door neighbor who gives Reginald good advice on living each day to the fullest. Florette has performed in several LLT productions as well as at Naked Stage.
Greg Clarke is hilarious as the New York neighbor and Reginald’s best friend “Ernie Cabella.” Greg has been with LLT both on and off stage for nine years. He demonstrates his flair for comedy with perfect timing and ease.
Judy Long plays “Doris Cabella” a long-time friend of Reginald and widow of his friend Ernie. After the death of her husband, Doris visits Reginald in Florida and becomes the guest who overstays her welcome and tries to rekindle a long ago indiscretion involving the two. Long has been in several LLT shows and always brings realism to any character she plays.
Mary Hunt, as a piano teacher “Bev Perkins,” interprets a proper southern lady who slowly exhibits smoldering feelings for Reginald. Her depiction of a traditional woman who needs a man to take care of her is very recognizable. While Hunt has extensive acting experience this is only her second appearance on the LLT stage.
Win McIntosh is the stage manager for this show. In addition to keeping backstage crews on their toes, her meticulous notes keep the movements of the on stage actors as fluid as a well rehearsed ballet
It is interesting to note that all the actors, director and stage manager hail from Canada.
The set for “Second Summer” is ingenious, allowing for easy flow from one scene to another. The construction crew of Earl Schenck, Richard Bansbach, Rick Bleier, Martin Eager and Terry Soden did a remarkable job.
The efforts of Ruth Kear for decoration and painting as well as props are much appreciated.
Sandy Jakubek acted as script assistant to Paul Kloegman.
Maryanne Gibbard did a great job as wardrobe mistress and Ann Swiston, as dresser, manages to get the cast into their many costume changes. Nancy Jessop is the make-up person for this show.
The stage crew of Geoff Long and Bruce Linnen do whatever needs to be done in order to keep scene changes rapid.
The sound tech for this show is Karen Lee, who designed the sound program and runs it every night.
Without the lighting techs this show would be a little difficult to follow. The expertise of Alan Bowers, Garry Peerless and Rick Bleier are very important. Congratulations on a great job.
“Second Summer” is the final production for LLT this season. A new and varied line-up for the 2017-2018 season will begin October 13 starting with the drama “Time Stands Still.”
“Second Summer” will run from Friday, March 24 through April 2. Evening performances are at 7:30 p.m. and first Saturday and both Sunday matinees are at 3 p.m. There is no performance on Monday, March 27. Ticket price is 200 pesos and tickets can be purchased at the box office one hour before show time, or from 10 a.m. to noon all show days except Sundays.