Skip to main content Skip to footer site map
Review: DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS at John W. Engeman Theater

Review: DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS at John W. Engeman Theater

The comedic timing, witty quips, and a side-spliting, unsuspecting story truly makes this a laugh-out-loud event.

Northport's John W. Engeman Theater yet again has another hit on their hands with their recent offering, a brilliant incarnation of Dirty Rotten Scoundrels. Yes, this hilarious Tony winning David Yazbek/Jeffrey Lane musical is based on the hit Steve Martin/Michael Caine blockbuster movie. The comedic timing, witty quips, and a side-spliting, unsuspecting story truly makes this a laugh-out-loud event.

Running through March 5th at the exquisite Long Island venue, the extraordinary cast is excellently directed by Engeman vet Drew Humphrey.

The story centers on two con-men challenging each other to scam an American heiress out of $50,000. First you will notice they have different points of view about their swindling ways. Lawrence Jameson, superbly portrayed by James D. Sasser is into ripping off corrupt, well-to-do people out of a lot of money so he can finance his lavish lifestyle. At the same time, his big-headed eventual frenemy, Freddy Benson, brilliantly portrayed by Danny Gardner, schemes people simply for a meal. In the end, these two perspectives complement each other and make for a very entertaining story.

Mr. Sasser and Mr. Gardner are a brilliant team. Their wisecracks and sassy dialog leaves the audience in absolute stitches. Indeed a favorite among the enthusiastic audience is their rendition of "The Reckoning"in act two which brings roaring applause. Also a highlight among the company is Emily Larger who portrays Christine Colgate, the "heiress" the guys conspired to swindle. A beautiful voice and a lot of spunk make Ms. Larger a natural in the role.

The overall look of the production is stunning. The highlight of Kyle Dixon's set is the beautiful grand staircase of Lawrence's villa. The large stage is draped in wisteria and has clever touches everywhere you look. This is stunningly enhanced by John Burkland's atmospheric lighting and Dustin Cross' gorgeous costumes. Additionally, Mandy Modic's wonderful choreography is delightful adding to the comedic value of Mr. Yazbek's score and Mr. Lane's book. Of course, it is always a treat to see live orchestra, this one expertly conducted by Daniel Mollett with Musical Direction by James Olmstead.

And so, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels at the John W. Engeman Theater is no doubt a must see this Winter season. A superb cast, the gorgeous Engeman theater, and a hilarious story make for a fun night of theater.



Samantha Massell to Star in DOUBLE HELIX World Premiere at Bay Street Theater & Sag Ha Photo
Samantha Massell has been cast as Rosalind Franklin in the lead role of the world premiere of the new musical Double Helix, scheduled to begin previews on Tuesday, May 30, as the opening show of Bay Street Theater & Sag Harbor Center for the Arts' 2023 Mainstage Season.

Cast Set for Long Island Premiere Of THE PROM at The CM Performing Arts Center Photo
The CM Performing Arts Center has announced their cast and crew for The Long Island Premiere of The Prom.

Photos: First Look At THE SOUND OF MUSIC At CM Performing Arts Center Photo
The CM Performing Arts Center has opened their long awaited production of The Sound of Music on the Main Stage in The Noel S. Ruiz Theatre. Here's a first look at photos from both the Blue and Green casts!

Photo: Broadway Legend Jerry Zaks Visits CLUE at The Gateway Photo
Check out a photo of Broadway Legend Jerry Zaks visiting Sally Struthers at Clue at The Gateway!


From This Author - Melissa Giordano

Melissa has been covering theatre for BroadwayWorld for the past eight years and has loved every second of it. She is consistently inspired by the talent of the artists of her beloved Long Island a... (read more about this author)


Review: THE LIFESPAN OF A FACT at Hampton Theatre CompanyReview: THE LIFESPAN OF A FACT at Hampton Theatre Company
March 24, 2023

What did our critic think of THE LIFESPAN OF A FACT at Hampton Theatre Company?

Review: SIDE BY SIDE BY SONDHEIM at Theatre ThreeReview: SIDE BY SIDE BY SONDHEIM at Theatre Three
February 23, 2023

What did our critic think of SIDE BY SIDE BY SONDHEIM at Theatre Three?

Review: WEST SIDE STORY at The ArgyleReview: WEST SIDE STORY at The Argyle
February 16, 2023

What did our critic think of WEST SIDE STORY at The Argyle?

Review: THE WEDDING SINGER Brings the 80s Back To Life At The GatewayReview: THE WEDDING SINGER Brings the 80s Back To Life At The Gateway
February 2, 2023

What did our critic think of THE WEDDING SINGER at The Gateway?

Review: DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS at John W. Engeman TheaterReview: DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS at John W. Engeman Theater
January 26, 2023

What did our critic think of DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS at John W. Engeman Theater?