As with any classic farce, Sean Fanning’s set for Cygnet Theatre’s production of Michael Frayn’s “Noises Off” has seven doors, all of which slam frequently. The production also features an array of eccentric and egocentric characters, played by actors adept at the subtleties of physical comedy, which is a good thing, because pratfalls abound. Master orchestrator of the popular English countryside farce is Cygnet artistic director Sean Murray. The production opens Cygnet’s 2009-10 season, its first at the Old Town Theatre. Those familiar with the work know that “Noises Off” provides a backstage view of onstage misfortunes. A theatrical troupe rehearses for a dreadful farce titled “Nothing On,” for which the actors are ill-prepared. Their director (excellent newcomer Albert Dayan) is simultaneously staging “Richard III” elsewhere. He’s cast his ditzy current mistress (Jessica John) in the ingénue role, while his pregnant former mistress (Kim Strassburger) is the stage manager. Add to these a second inept stage manager (Jason Connors), a petulant leading lady (Rosina Reynolds) playing the role of the maid, and two couples (Sandy Campbell and Craig Huisenga and Jason Heil and John) intent on using the country home as a trysting place. Every party, even the burglar (Jonathan McMurtry), thinks themselves the only ones in the home, and for a time, due to split-second timing and slamming of doors, it appears to be so. We see Act I three times, once in rehearsal (from the audience’s view), once as the show has opened (backstage), and once just before its scheduled closing (again from the audience), after a tour of the provinces. Each time, back- stage backbiting makes matters worse and the performances grow more and more disastrous. The company deserves endurance awards, all. George Ye makes all possible with his stunt choreography, which on opening night July 11 included Heil’s magnificent tumble down the stairs. Also wondrous are Connors’ rubber-bodied nervous tics, and one unscheduled pratfall (oh, my, those sardines get slippery) and recovery with no apparent injury. Corey Johnston’s costumes are outstanding, especially John’s “small clothes,” and Peter Herman’s wigs play roles of their own. Sound and lighting are excellently handled by Matt Lescault-Wood and Eric Lotze. Bonnie L. Durben’s props are marvelous. Expect to laugh yourself silly. This is just what we need right here, right now. “Noises Off” continues through Aug. 23, at 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays, 8 p.m. Fridays, 2 and 8 p.m. Saturdays, and 2 and 7 p.m. Sundays at the Old Town Theatre, 4040 Twiggs St. For tickets ($17-$46) and information, visit www.cygnettheatre.com or call (619) 337-1525.
