You Can't Take It With You
Directed by Margi Griffiths
The Morgan Arts Council’s spring play promises more than two hours of hilarity for audiences of all ages. Opening at the Ice House on Friday, May 7 at 7:30pm for a two-weekend, nine performance run,“You Can’t Take It With You,” is an award-winning play by Moss and Hart. Margi Griffiths directs the comedy in her Ice House Theater Project’s main stage debut.
Members of the youth-to-retiree, 20-person cast are unanimous in the effect the play will have on audiences. “The show is a hoot,” said Sandy Bienen who is Mr. Kirby, one of the many eccentric characters in the play. “People should come and have a lot of yucks for a few bucks,” he said, possibly in character -- or maybe not.
The entire play takes place in Martin Vanderoff’s New York suburban living room in 1938 where he lives with his grown children, their spouses, children and unrelated others. There is a subplot of young love and occasional visits by deposed Russian royalty. “The comedy appeals to the whole family with everything from witty dialogue to absolute slapstick,” said Colin Williams who plays Boris Kolenkhov, the Russian ballet teacher of a Vanderoff daughter. “Essie spends all her time on stage dancing,” said Williams about his character’s student.
Colin is only one member of the Williams family featured in the ensemble. Griffiths is his sister, and brother, Brice plays Vanderoff. Griffith’s husband, Dave is in the play as is Gary McDaniels who grew up in the Williams household. “It’s been great fun,” said Williams. “Margi, Brice and I never did anything together before and Brice, Gary and I have not been onstage together since our days at Berkeley Springs High School.” Williams is certain the pleasure the family -- and rest of the cast -- have had working together will translate on show nights into a treat for the audience as well.
Other familiar faces from previous Ice House productions include Trish Shunney as a Russian duchess, Ashley Shade, Sharon Carpenter Rose and Kim Jensen. Abbie Brown adds another odd character to her repertoire playing DePinna, the deliveryman who comes to the Vanderoff’s with a package and stays five years.
“You Can’t Take It With You” will be staged on Friday, May 7 and 14 at 7:30pm; Saturday, May 8 at 2 and 7:30pm; Sunday May 9 and 16 at 2pm; Thursday, May 13 at 7:30pm and Saturday, May 15 at 2 and 6pm. Call 258-5021 for reservations. The Ice House is located at the Independence and Mercer streets in downtown Berkeley Springs. The spring production is sponsored by Citizens National Bank.