by Shirley Lorraine
Neil Simon’s Chapter Two Still Delivers
Dubbed one of the most prolific script writers in history (stage, screen and television), Neil Simon’s works are primarily comedies laced with hard-hitting truths. Several decades ago, one would have been hard pressed to find a local theater not staging one of his works in any given season. However, the years go by and newer, edgier stagings became the norm. The truth is though, that Simon’s acumen still hits at the heart of matters that are commonplace, emotional and challenging. Drawing from his own life experiences and those of others, he has successfully brought everyday life issues to the forefront with humor and empathy. He uncovered an essential truth – it is critical to laugh at ourselves as we tackle the travails of life.
Santa Paula Theater Center is currently staging Chapter Two directed by Brian Robert Harris. The play covers Simon’s exploration into the life of George Schneider (Anthony Elias Contreras), a widower who is understandably reluctant to reenter the dating world. George’s ever-helpful brother, Leo (Brian Wulfekotte) assumes the role of matchmaker even as his own marriage is struggling.
Leo randomly meets Jennifer Malone (Sophia Montano), whose own marriage recently ended, and decides to push George into meeting her. With encouragement from best friend Faye (Amber Rae Bowyer), Jennie takes a “what the heck” approach and agrees to meet George.
The two hit it off immediately and leap headfirst into a rebound relationship that, while perfect on the surface, harbors hidden feelings of loss that they are reluctant to acknowledge until after rash decisions are made.
Each of the four characters carry baggage heavier than they can emotionally manage. Each wears a shell of anxiety that shields their true feelings.
All four of the actors are excellent in their portrayals. Simon interjects many funny lines to keep things from getting too heavy, while at the same time causing the audience to think a little deeper.
Subplots keep the action surprising and humorous. These, too, reveal a lot about what is really going on in the characters’ heads, adding layers of indecision and consternation.
This is classic Neil Simon – identifying with the common person and allowing the audience to find the inherent humor and absurdity of the characters’ plights. We root for the characters, knowing that in the end the resolution will be satisfying.
The split set design credited to Nick Caisse of both Jennifer and George’s apartment interiors works quite well and is beautifully appointed in both cases. Costuming transports us back to the 1970’s in a flash. Leo’s print polyester shirts and Faye’s free spirit ensembles especially hit just the right notes.
Due to cast illness, the opening was pushed back a week, shortening the run to just four weeks. Be sure and try to catch this refreshing classic before it ends.
Chapter Two continues through September 29, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2:30 p.m. www.santapaulatheatercenter.org or (805)525-4645.
