“Theatre People”
Westport Country Playhouse
Westport Country Playhouse is currently presenting an utterly delightful show called “Theatre People.” Written by Paul Slade Smith and exquisitely directed by Mark Shanahan, this play is a love letter to the world of the theatre. With a stellar cast led by Isabel Keating and Michael McCormick, “Theatre People” is lighter than air as it unfolds its story within a two hour running time (with an intermission). And, quite endearingly throughout, the cast occasionally breaks the fourth wall to reference the audience watching the show. This is done so affectionately that it only adds to the pleasures in the play. Westport Country Playhouse definitely has a winner in its production in “Theatre People” and the show is a lark from beginning to end.
On the gorgeous set of a bedroom (designed by James J. Fenton), which, notably features several doors, the show immediately establishes the conundrum at the center of the play: playwrights Arthur and Charlotte Sanders (terrifically portrayed by, respectively, Michael McCormick and Isabel Keating) have written a play that is based on an as yet unpublished novel, written by the character of Oliver (the fine Rodolfo Soto).
Unfortunately, without giving too much away, matters are thrown into a flux because there is some resistance on Oliver’s part to sign the contract to publish his book. And, unless the book gets published, the play that Arthur and Charlotte wrote, based on Oliver’s book, cannot be produced on Broadway. Thus, it is the evening long effort on the parts of Arthur and Charlotte (who are almost out of money) to get Oliver to finally sign the contract.
This description may make “Theatre People” sound like it is overly complicated, but the entire show is so charming and effective that it keeps from ever getting bogged down. This is due to the skillful direction and, significantly, to the performances by the six member cast. Also in the play are the characters of Margot (the lovely Mia Pinero), who is an actress and a singer, and her somewhat narcissistic fellow performer Victor (amusingly played by Michael McCorry Rose).
And then there is the character of Olga, the maid. In this relatively small role, Erin Noel Grennan is so outstanding and funny that she nearly steals every scene that she is in. From her denouncing the other characters as “theatre people” to her noisily pushing a cart filled with champagne bottles and glasses into and out of the room, Grennan is a scream and her character’s stern demeanor and crisp maid’s outfit (perfectly designed by the glorious costume designer Annie J. Le) only add to the hilarity. This actress makes so much out of this supporting character that she is sure to keep you laughing throughout.
It is thus a tribute to the rest of the actors that they all still manage to get their own individual moments to shine. I saw Isabel Keating do wonderful work in “The Boy From Oz” and her performance here as Charlotte is absolutely delicious. Matching her flawlessly is Michael McCormack, whom I have also seen, to excellent effect, in such Broadway shows as “Kiss Me, Kate” and “Curtains.” Indeed, these two performers bring such fun and authority to their roles that one can’t help rooting for the two to finally get their play produced.
Still, I am loathe to reveal anything else about the plot of “Theatre People” since it is the many surprises and twists and turns in the show that make this play so humorous. It can be stated, however, that, in addition to the expert performances, the director also works seamlessly with his design team, including the striking lighting design (by Alyssandra Docherty) and the crystal clear sound design, courtesy of Jill BC Du Boff.
The real joy of this play, however, is its sheer celebration of the theatre, both to those who present it and those who come to see it. “Theatre People” at Westport Country Playhouse is such a frolic and a treat that it is sure to send you out feeling deeply satisfied and it is thus most highly recommended.
“Theatre People” runs through April 12, 2025 at Westport Country Playhouse, 25 Powers Ct., Westport CT. For tickets and information, please call 203-227-4177 or visit westportplayhouse.org.
Photo: (L-R) Rodolfo Soto, Michael McCormick, and Isabel Keating
Photo by T. Charles Erickson
Reviews by Zander Opper 