DINNER THEATRE
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CHILDREN'S THEATRE
5 Willowdale Drive
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Frederick, Maryland 21702
Telephone:
(301) 662-6600
Your ticket to Broadway in Western Maryland!


Jordan Stocksdale as
Max, Jeremy Trammelle as Leo, and Zane Oberholzer as Franz in Way Off
Broadway's production of
The Producers
THE PRODUCERS IS
PITCH PERFECT
By Lisa Proulx
The Frederick Gazette
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Way Off Broadway has another side-splitting hit on their hands. "The Producers," based on the Broadway smash by comic genius Mel Brooks, was directed by Justin Kiska, president and managing director of the theater.
The story is about a down-on-his-luck producer, Max Bialystock, who teams up with his mild mannered accountant Leo Bloom to devise the worst play Broadway has ever seen in the hopes that the duo will make more money with a flop then with a hit.
The only problem: Their gloriously offensive play becomes the hit that has recently eluded Max.
Max reluctantly seduces "little old ladies" out of their pensions, and uses the money to finance his endeavors. The unlikely duo stumbles upon a play written by an over-zealous German, seemingly unaware that the war is over and hoping to see his script "Springtime for Hitler" realized on stage.
What follows is a non-stop ride of laughs, oohs and ahs as the play delves into Brooks' wacky world.
No stranger to the Way Off Broadway stage, Jordan Stocksdale gives yet another stellar performance as the scheming Max. His channeling of Nathan Lane (who starred in both the recent Broadway revival and film) was wonderfully eerie and his interpretation superb. Stocksdale's comic timing approaches genius and his dramatic singing voice captivated the audience. He would have made Lane proud.
Jeremy Trammelle was sweet and hilarious as meek accountant Leo. The chemistry between both actors brought distinct realism to the roles.
Zane L. Oberholzer, Jr., as wacky German playwright Franz, brought the house down in his olive colored lederhosen. Keep an eye out for swastika wearing pigeons as they pledge allegiance to their infamous leader.
Another standout was Jeffrey Davis as the flamboyant, evening gown-wearing director Roger, whose reluctance in directing an homage to Hitler was overturned when told he can "keep it gay, keep it gay, keep it gay."
Roger's "common-law assistant" Carmen was brilliantly portrayed by Gary Bernard DiNardo — devilishly hilarious in his black skin tight pants and groovy necklace.
The lovely Taylor Whidden rounds out the main cast as the wistful and "almost" innocent Swedish secretary Ulla.
Bits like Little Old Lady Land will have you rolling in the aisles. Also watch for the parade of assistants that aide Roger the Director in his zany everyday life.
While performed in jest, the show deals with some sensitive, albeit diverse, topics. It is possible that some could take offense, although I saw no sign of hostility in the audience. There are some playfully risqué scenes and naughty innuendo, but being true to Brook's offbeat humor and style, anyone familiar with his work should not be shocked.
At Way Off Broadway, the shows are always top-notch, the food and service are excellent and the cast makes you feel like family when you arrive and when you depart.
"The Producers" is an absolute must see.
"The Producers" runs through Nov. 7. Call 301-662-6600. www.wayoffbroadway.com.