BWW Reviews: Broadhollow's SLY FOX at Studio Theatre
It is always intriguing to see what Greed does to people. It is even more intriguing when it is hilariously made fun of. Sly Fox, presented by the BroadHollow Theatre Company, will have you rolling in the isles as a con-man (and his assistant) convince the community that he is near death and turns their greed against them for his own gain, with some twists along the way.
Sly Fox, hilariously written by Larry Gelbart, is based on Ben Johnson's Volpone and is wonderfully directed by Scott Hofer. Being shown through April 21st at Lindenhurst's Studio Theatre, the play, originally on Broadway from 1976-1978, follows Mr. Foxwell J. Sly and Simon Able as they come up with an intricate plan to fool their friends.
It is announced that Sly, a rich, elderly con-man portrayed by Frank DiSpigno, is on his deathbed and will bequeath his belongings to whoever showers him with the most elaborate gifts. Of course, Mr. Sly is in perfect health. As Simon, his assistant and co-conspirator portrayed by Jordan Hue, tells people to bring more luxurious presents, an exquisite pure gold wine goblet is added to his already vast collection, the wife of one of his friends is offered, and one gentleman even disowns his own son. All of this because they believe Fox has a fortune and will offer anything to get it.
Mr. DiSpigno and Mr. Hue make a fantastic team. Their quips to each other and to everyone throughout the show brought many laughs to the sold out audience. Additionally, Howie Orlick as Abner Truckle was a highlight with his impeccable comedy. One of the biggest laughs from the audience was his first entrance. Simon opens the door to let Abner in, and the first words he utters are "Is he dead?". Roars of laughter ensued.
The remainder of the cast is fantastic as well. It features Eric Clavell as Lawyer Craven, W. Gordon Innes as Jethro Crouch, Joan St. Onge as Miss Fancy, Tara Palen as Mrs. Truckle, Evan Donnellan as Captain Crouch (Jethro's son), Gary Milenko as the Chief of Police, Robert P. Seigfried, Steve Incarnarto, and John Bellantuono.
Also a highlight was the beautiful set done by Chris Kenyon. It is not s huge stage, but Mr. Kenyon made great use of the small space. Dark green walls with dark trim ran the length of the stage. Center stage was used as Sly's chambers. The bed folded into the wall and utilized as a courtroom in Act 2. Stage left was Mr. & Mrs. Truckle's living room and stage right was Mr. Crouch's office. It was very well thought through, indeed.
Broadhollow's Sly Fox is simply a fun night of theatre. The great cast will have you leaving the theatre in stitches. And to see what could be a disastrous psyche being made fun of is nothing short of a wonderful story.
Sly Fox is presented by the Broadhollow Theatre Company at Studio Theatre on Wellwood Ave in Lindenhurst, Long Island) through April 21st. Written by Larry Gelbart based on Ben Johnson's Volpone, Directed by Scott Hofer, Set Design by Chris Kenyon, Lighting Design by Raj Budham, and Stage Manager is Anne Longobardo. For more information and to purchase tickets please call 631-226-8400 or visit studiothetreli.com.
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