Mame Rocks at the Westchester Playhouse

I’ve been taking an improv class over the past few years, and now I realize why I didn’t pursue a career in the performing arts. It’s not easy. No matter how gifted the performers are onstage, behind the scenes is a grueling schedule of rehearsals, memorization, choreography, and discipline.

Now when I attend the theater, I have renewed respect for those on stage and the many gifts they possess in bringing a production to life.

Recently, I got to enjoy the Kentwood Players at the Westchester Playhouse and their rendition of Mame.

For those of you who are unfamiliar with this musical, Mame is the 1966 multiple Tony Award winning musical, which is based on the biographical novel Auntie Mame: An Irreverent Escapade by Patrick Dennis and subsequent play and film Auntie Mame by Jerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee. The narrative enhanced with Jerry Herman’s evocative, lively, and sentimental music and lyrics.

What a fun production this was! Mame Dennis is an over-the-top character residing in New York City during the Great Depression. Her penchant for endless partying among her socialite friends takes an unusual turn when her young nephew Patrick comes into her life.

No napping allowed during this production. It will keep you on your toes and roaring with laughter.

We enjoyed a matinee, and the house was packed. Accompanying the production was a live band above the stage whose earnest efforts augmented this hysterical production.

Ovations go to everyone in the cast, but in particular I was impressed with Elizabeth A. Bouton, who played Agnes Gooch. The transformation of this character from a frumpy nanny into a glamorous dame was impressive. And when she morphed into a hysterical pregnant woman, it really showed the wide range of her talents. On top of that, she has a voice that belongs on Broadway.

If you are looking for some affordable theater in the area, The Kentwood Players at Westchester Playhouse is the way to go. They have very affordable season subscriptions, and the visibility in the theater is marvelous. There are no bad seats in the house. Parking is free and accessibility to the theater is easy.

There are a myriad of restaurants in the area, if you want to go to dinner or have lunch before a matinee.

Mame plays until April 18th

Westchester Playhouse

8301 Hindry Ave.

Los Angeles 90045

310-645 5156

www.kentwoodplayers.org