With a woof and a wiggle that endear many pet puppies to humans, SYLVIA barks its way onto The Kelsey Theatre stage and into the hearts of the audience.
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Clockwise from front, Maria Aromando as Sylvia, Gina Whalen as Kate, Dan Keyser (multiple roles), and Kurt Penney as Greg. Photo by Angel Obergon.
Forte Dramatic Production’s telling of the A.R. Gurney giggle-rousing comedy hits the right bonding notes as the lively dog tagged Sylvia is found abandoned in a park by a midlife-crisis-suffering man, Greg. Naturally, he brings her home to the apartment he shares with his wife, Kate, who has found new purpose as a teacher now that their grown children have gone on to their own new lives.
Greg has lost interest in his current job, Kate is fascinated with hers and Sylvia is rolling over with joy at the prospect of someone who will be devoted to her. What could possibly go wrong?
Gurney’s popular play gives the starring role to Sylvia, who is played by popular Kelsey Theatre actress Maria Aromando, with every wiggle, sniff and leap onto the family couch making Greg incredibly happy and driving Kate to distraction.
Joining Aromando in the cast are Kurt Penney as Greg, Gina Whalen as Kate, and Dan Keyser as everybody else.
One small caveat for folks who might think a comedy with a dog in the title role might be appropriate for children – there are a lot of “four-letter” words deftly delivered at what could be considered appropriate moments. Viewer discretion is advised.
John Zimmerman, often seen gracing the local stage himself, directs the show. SYLVIA is produced by Stephanie A. Zimmerman and Asst. Produced by John Demeter, with Technical Direction by Scott Monsees, Stage Management by Melissa Gaynor, Set Design by Jim Petro, Scenic Design by Haley Schmalbach, Costume Design by Sally Page Sohor, Lighting Design by Scott Monsees, Sound Design by Mike Skelly, Properties by Amy Bessellieu, and Publicity by Nicole Demeter.
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