Review: DON'T DRESS FOR DINNER at Florida Studio Theatre

Organizing a dinner party can be a fun and exciting experience, filled with unexpected twists and turns. Picture this: a mix-up occurs, and your hired chef ends up posing as your mistress, while your non-domesticated mistress is suddenly in charge of cooking. The real kicker? Your wife ends up staying home to find the man she's having an affair with, who also happens to be your Best Friend. It's a situation straight out of a sitcom, but definitely not the kind of drama you want to deal with at your dinner table!

A lively and uproarious comedy, “Don’t Dress for Dinner” enchanted crowds in Paris for over two years and brought laughter to Londoners for an impressive six-year run is none other than this sensational hit production. With its widespread popularity, this show made a memorable impact in the USA and across English-speaking audiences, bringing joy through revivals in Chicago and on the grand stages of Broadway at the American Airlines Theatre in 2012. The Broadway adaptation even secured two Tony award nominations, establishing itself as a cherished gem in the world of theater. Florida Studio Theatre (FST) is wrapping up their current season on the Main Stage with an absolutely must-see production. It has already been extended once and you will want to catch it while you can.

In a quaint country estate just outside of the beautiful city of Paris, the charming character of Bernard, portrayed with great flamboyance and a touch of playful sarcasm by the talented Gil Brady, finds himself caught in a whirlwind of events! As each character enters the stage, the story unfolds effortlessly, leaving the audience on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating what surprising turn of events will occur next. With a tangled web of multiple affairs and an abundance of alcohol flowing freely, it's safe to say that living out the drama depicted in this show would be a hostess' worst nightmare! Thankfully, the chaos and excitement are contained within the confines of the stage, providing spectators with a delightful spectacle to observe and enjoy.

In a lighthearted and jovial manner, the performance's physical comedy combined with the witty banter kept the audience engaged and on their toes. It was a challenge to determine who delivered the most memorable comebacks, as each cast member excelled in their delivery and comedic timing. Specifically, when Robert, portrayed by Jack Berenholtz, embarked on a captivating soliloquy to explain a situation, the audience was left in awe of his gripping performance. The sheer brilliance in his acting and delivery unfolded before us, showcasing true mastery of the craft. Furthermore, Ellen Grace Diehl's portrayal of various characters shone brightly, characterized by her charming facial expressions, vibrant energy, and versatility across all roles she undertook.