Secrets Every Traveler Should Know
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Cast
Photo by James Esposito
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By Joseph N. Feinstein
In a very pleasant, very humorous two-hour romp, the eight member Chromolume Theatre Company sings, dances and acts in thirty sketches, all designed to help prepare us for our next trip, whether by train, plane, auto, or foot. If it's by air, we are warned that "Economy really means A-Con-On-Me"!
Under the capable direction of Marc Mercury and some clever choreography by Kristie Rutledge, the seven actors and inspired piano of Benjamin Jose take us on a tour of the world, visiting Spain, France, Mexico, Germany, and, of course, Pittsburgh. How can you complete any round-the-world tour without visiting Pittsburgh?
During this tour you will meet: Richard (Van Slyke) Undressed; he was the one left in Pittsburgh while his bags were sent on to Los Angeles. Next in line is Meghan (Olson), the ditziest flight attendant, who, when called "stewardess," flies into a tantrum. She's in Economy, but belongs off the plane. Following that, Kristie (Rutledge), is the one with the awful blonde wig. She claims your comfort is her only goal, for she's stationed in First Class. You'll wish she wasn't! Then, James (Stevens) comes in, the pilot whose taste for the sauce gets repeated attention and causes some very large belly laughs. Andrew (Block) is there too, and his patience is tested each time he picks up the phone to call for airline reservations. You will notice personal similarities here, I promise! Rachel (Rawlins), who sings and dances right into your heart when she isn't keeping you on hold is amusing, while Richie (Cunningham), along with Rachel, has a very fine voice designed to entertain; he does so consistently.
I won't give away any of the sketches except to say that many of the songs credited to thirteen different composers are bright, sparkling, and catchy. I especially enjoyed the opening "Secrets", "Star Search", "Seeing America First", and "What Did I Forget?"
"Private Wives", performed by Richie and Meghan, has the two celebrating a victory over marriage and is done quite humorously. And the "French Song," sung in French by Kristie and translated by Rachel, is guaranteed to create healthy laughter which is so good to have on any trip! Andrew's several experiences while he is held captive on the phone with Rachel helps shed light on future actions you might experience while waiting to speak to the reservations clerk. The airline in question is " Miracle Airlines" and their motto is, "If it's a good flight, It's a Miracle!" The shtick flashed on the screen at the beginning, intermission, or after the show might remind you of something you remember from Mad Comics. It's just their way of giving you something more.
In order to enjoy the trip, you'll have to make your reservations immediately, for they're taking off only until April 1. Go, fly, enjoy! This musical comedy revue delivers!
Secrets Every Smart Traveler Should Know Theatre/Theatre 5041 Pico Boulevard
Los Angeles, 90019 Tel. 323-938-3700 Tickets $20; Sr. & Students - $17
Friday & Saturday @ 8:00 p.m.; Sunday @ 2:00 p.m.
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