BWW Reviews: IS HE DEAD? is Alive and Kicking at Francis Wilson Playhouse

"Is He Dead?" made its debut on Broadway in 2007. Mark Twain's immortal humor, was adapted by playwright David Ives. The satirical, comic, farce takes place outside of Paris in 1846. The story revolves around the "starving artist", Jean-Francois Millet, who realizes that his paintings would bring him a considerable amount of "fame and fortune", IF he were dead. With the assistance of his colleagues, Millet fakes his own death and in turn to enjoy his newly found riches, disguises himself as his twin. I won't say another word, you will have to see what happens next in this hilarious romp, for yourself.

The focus is on the men in this piece and the talents of the male actors in this company, were brought to comedic height by Director Murray Mintz. Mr. Mintz's staging, slapstick comedic bits, sight gags, and yes, choreography and recorded music too, added exactly what this play needs to be a hit!

Bravo!, to Jason Fortner, who gives a stellar performance as the penniless painter, Millet. Mr. Fortner is a comic genius, commanding the stage at every moment. His rapid delivery, sure-fire timing, schtick, and physical comedy, are at his burlesque... Best! Mr. Forter is a master comedian and knows how to get laughs; and he gets everyone of them and more! His, is a performance not to be missed!

T.J. Gill, as the villainous scoundrel, Bastien Andre, is outstanding and very effective in his role, as the character we love to hate. As Millet's collegue, Agamemnon Buckner, (aka Chicago), Matthew Michael Schiel is a natural on stage and delivers a fine performance.

Andrew Hughs as Millet's pupil, Hans Von Bismark (aka Dutchy), and Jon Nelligan as Phelim O' Shaughnessy, add warmth and an international flair to their characters.

Rounding out the cast were Michael Bruno as Papa Leroux, Jennifer McDonald as Marie, Colleen Boylan as Cecile, Jennette Cronk as Madame Bathilde, and Margaret Boylan as Madame Caron.

Last, but not least, is the multi faceted talents of Kurt Gawlik, in not one, not two, not three, but in four roles. Mr. Gawlik's impressive acting skills brought life to the characters of Basil Thorpe, Claude Riviere, Charlie, and the King of France. His mere appearance on stage brought gales of laughter. A comic delight!

The set, an artist's studio in Act I, and an elaborate Parisian Drawing Room in Act II, were perfectly designed by gifted, leading man, Jason Fortner. The lighing design by Andy Rufo, using pools of light, punctuated the monologues and gave focus to the characters asides to the audience. Costume designers, Jennette Cronk and Margaret Boylan produced perfectly, period, wardrobe. Stage Manager Tom Mitchell kept the production moving smoothly.

Want a really good laugh? Lots of really good laughs?Don't miss this rare opportunity to see Mark Twain's. 'Is He Dead?". You will laugh yourself silly!

Support Community Theatre and all of the volunteers, that put in endless time and talent, to make the magic happen, simply... "for the LOVE of the theatre".

Go see it and have some FUN!

IS HE DEAD?" runs through April 14th, 2013. Ticket Prices: $21.00. Call 727-446-1360. The theatre is located at 302 Seminole Street, Clearwater, Florida. The next production at Francis Wilson Playhouse is the musical "Pippin", May 9th - May 26th, 2013.

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