Did You Hear? 'Rumors' Running at The Barn Theatre

In real life, rumors often cause more harm than good. At the Barn Theatre, however, nothing gets a laugh like "Rumors."

Directed by Tom Blewitt and written by Neil Simon, "Rumors," which premiered at The Barn Theatre on Sept. 10, is the first production of the theatre's 83rd season, and it starts the year off with a bang.

As soon as the lights shine on the scenery, Chris Gorman, played by Rachel Dunwoody, enters overly shaking, nervous and frazzled, a state that the she and the rest of the characters endure throughout the play.

It turns out that she and her husband, Ken Gorman, played by Jonathan Peck, have discovered their good friend, Charley Brock, in his bedroom after he shot himself in the head, later revealed to be a flesh wound. Totally out of it, Charley is unable to explain how the situation occurred.

The plot unfolds, revealing a wedding party missing guests and some suspicious actions of those in attendance, leading to, you guessed it, rumors.

One of the more interesting aspects of the play was its use of off-stage characters, especially considering how much of the plot is based on some key individuals who the audience never actually sees.

Though the outlandish reactions and anxiousness of the characters may be considered unrealistic at times, a lot of it correlates to reality. The characters make up lie after lie to cover up the story and draw conclusions, each one more ridiculous than the previous and backing them into a corner, causing more headaches. It becomes hard to remember which characters know what because there are so many details to keep in mind.

Some memorable performances include Vincent J. Balzano's monologue as Lenny Ganz and Lauren Mazzarese's reactions to the increasing craziness as Clare Ganz. The "straight men" of the cast include police officers Welch and Pudney, played by Sam Salter and Michelle Stern respectively, but they too crack jokes here and there, initiating chuckles from the audience.

To review the play in one word: hilarious. This was one of the funniest plays I have ever seen and I, along with the rest of the audience, could not stop laughing. Even simple lines set me off, both for their wit and delivery. I reccomened it so highly, I might go a second time. With all the balls this play keeps in the air, one might have to go again.

For more information on what is happening at The Barn Theatre, call the box office at 973-334-9320, or visit its website.