BWW Reviews: MAMA WON'T FLY Delivers Laughs

As with the first production in the new space, I was struck by the minimal set as I entered South City Theatre last night. With THE REAL QUEEN OF HEARTS AIN'T EVEN PRETTY, their first production in the new Pelham location, there were only a few things on stage- lockers, benches, and a couple of folding tables. With their current production there are a few beaten up road signs attached to the wall and that is it. Minimal is an understatement. But that doesn't last for long.

The second thing I noticed was that a small section of wall had a projection of the show's poster. This would also come into play later in an interesting way.

And my last observation before the play even started was how quickly the audience filled up with boisterous, excited patrons. The energy was palpable before the show ever started, and stayed high throughout.

MAMA WON'T FLY is written by the trio of Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope and Jamie Wooten, the same playwrights as last summer's hit, DIXIE SWIM CLUB. I can't say enough about the witty writing these three can turn out. Although this is much more slapstick than SWIM CLUB, it has the same wry sense of humor and the jokes speak for themselves.

Inhabited by 24 characters, played by 12 actors, this show moves quickly and never lets up on the laughs. From visiting an undergarment museum, to attending a family BBQ and even spending time in Vegas, the three main characters are put in preposterous situations from Birmingham to Santa Monica, California. Somehow it all seems probable under the direction of Dan Strickland. We even see hints of some of our own relatives in the mix.

Sue Ellen Gerrells, as Mama Norleen Sprunt, certainly comes across as the seasoned veteran in this cast. At ease on stage and with great comedic timing, it is nice to see her in a lighthearted role after her award winning run in the very serious "NIGHT MOTHER.

Robin Rushing, as Haley Quinn, is adorable. Her wide eyed innocence and bad luck vulnerability are right on point for this character.

Between scenes, while different props are carried out, (including 2 "cars" and a "Mack truck") the projection wall is used to show pictures of our travels as we move down the road with these characters. Photographs that are both funny, yet all too real, show us sights most of us have seen as we travel down the road- humorous signs, attractions, accidents,and road kill. It kept us engaged and entertained as the sets are quickly and efficiently moved.

If you are looking for a dramatic night of theatre, award winning performances and a deep meaning that will change your life, skip MAMA WON'T FLY. But, if like most of us, you need to forget your troubles and laugh your head off, this is the play for you! You will absolutely be entertained.

MAMA WON'T FLY runs this weekend and June 11-13. Seating is limited and many performances are already sold out, so call quickly about tickets. Go to southcitytheatre.com or call 205-621-2128. This is one trip you don't want to miss.

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