BWW Reviews: Theatre UCF Kicks off a Season of Summer Love Affairs with BOEING BOEING

With three rotating fiancee, a visiting friend, and stressed out maid, what could possibly go wrong? Such is the hysterical unraveling of Bernard's perfectly timed life in BOEING BOEING. Audience members of Theatre UCF's production can take a break from the summer heat, grab a drink, and escape to 1960s Paris.

BOEING BOEING relies heavily on physical comedy, impeccable timing, and sexual innuendos. From door slam to door open, this cast does not miss a beat. Bernard's three fiancees each have their likeable qualities, so it is no wonder why he keeps them all around. As Bernard explains it is mathematically impossible for them to be in the same city at the same time thanks to his "foolproof" airline timetables. Clearly, he has never flown on United Airlines.

Bernard, as played by Patrick Sylvester, goes from cool and suave to panic-stricken and non-functional in moments. Sylvester plays Bernard with an essence of Gatsby and AMC's Mad Men. Of course, Bernard's perfect plan unravels thanks to the weather. All of the ladies end up at the flat, but at different times. Bernard's best friend, Robert, receives the brunt of the abuse. His loyalty is tested as he tries to help Bernard keep his way of life in tact. Eric Earley plays the role masochistically, yet naively charming.

Then there is Bertha, masterfully played by Kate Ingram. The frenetic maid does her best to keep her monsieur's life in order, but it isn't easy. From the predictable fall out, to the panic of having all the women in the same location, Ingram's facial expressions say it all.

Bernard's fiancees worked their various accents hard, but each portraying a vastly different woman. Kim Hough plays Gretchen, an abrupt sexy all-German woman, whose actions and speech patterns are the highlight of the show. Oppositely is the sweet Italian, Gabrielle, played by Danielle Miller. Then there's the loud and strange American, Gloria, played by Emily Schwartz, whose Boston/New York/New Jersey/Mississippi accent seemed to pierce the romantic Parisian setting. Do all Americans visiting Europe sound like that?

The set of Bernard's flat encaptures the feel of the 1960s right down to the geometric primary colored artwork. An impressive wire-framed Eiffel Tower stands in silhouette, setting the romantic mood.

This play is laugh out loud funny and a perfect start to the summer season. Directed by Mark Brotherton, BOEING BOEING features Patrick Sylvester as Bernard, Kate Ingram as Bertha, Eric Earley as Robert, Emily Schwartz as Gloria, Danielle Miller as Gabrielle, and Kim Hough as Gretchen. Don't forget to check out my interview with Patrick Sylvester, Kate Ingram, and Eric Earley.

BOEING BOEING runs at Theatre UCF from June 13-16, June 20-23, July 12, 14, 18, 20. To buy tickets visit http://theatre.cah.ucf.edu/events.php?id=2217.

Photo Credit: Theatre UCF

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