Barbara Kohler

Is this the season for silly? Exactly six years ago for my first TPIT review, I watched David Irving metamorphose into a dog. This time his face contorts with petulance, his feet fly, and he shoes his way into our hearts.

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is a fun show suitable for youth and adults alike and plays at the Masquers until Dec. 18th. The show is directed by John Maio with music direction by Pat King and was written by Rachel Sheinkin with music and lyrics by William Finn. The music is ably executed by Wesley Asakawa, Barbara Kohler, Jo Lusk, Dean Starnes, Patrice Young and Pat herself.

Feeling at loose ends? Don’t know what to have for dinner? The Apple Tree might solve your itch—it’s three, seemingly unconnected plays in one. Continuity occurs because the same actors play throughout, time travels from long ago to the present, and the stories are about love and innocence. The publicity flyers for the show differ, stating that these plays are about getting what you want and discovering what you really wanted afterward. You’ll have to decide who's right.

Music and lyrics of The Apple Tree were written by Jerry Bock and Sheldon Harnick. The first play was based on the writings of Mark Twain, the second a short story by Frank R. Stockton and the third a story by Jules Feiffer. In the Masquers performances, Robert Love directs, with music direction by Pat King. Music is ably performed by Pat herself, Ted Bigornia, Jo Lusk, Jim Ware and Barbara Kohler. The show plays until May 1.

The first play is The Diary of Adam and Eve, a sweet comedy, especially for those with a Judeo-Christian background—particularly since it answers so many questions. (Photos by Jerry Telfer).

I was a virgin until that night. Assistant Director Michelle Pond told me that’s the label for someone who’s never seen Rocky Horror Show. As always, virgins are rare. For 30+ years, Rocky Horror, written by Richard O'Brien, has drawn a huge cult following; Director G. A. Klein has seen the production upwards of 500 times.

G. A. Klein directs a big show: Rocky Horror has lots of glitter, a copious cast and sweeping, grand music.