A crackerjack company of four women, former Sledgehammer Theatre artistic director Kirsten Brandt, who as director gets every nuance of the play, and a grand team of designers support the production of Annie Weisman’s “Hold Please,” currently playing in the Old Globe’s Cassius Carter Center Stage through May 6. Weisman’s earlier play, about competitive cheerleading at the high school level, was widely produced regionally following its premiere at La Jolla Playhouse,
Much more than a women-bonding type of thing, “Hold Please” plumbs some deep issues as four secretaries, two older and two younger, pass their workday lives in a large, politics-fraught, law firm that could be just anywhere post-Monica Lewinsky. Playgoers lurch between believing the sincerity of the women’s relationships and darker motives that lurk just under the dog-eat-dog surface.
Following a hilariously droll light-and-music show that introduces all the latest bells and whistles in office equipment, the four women, led by Globe associate artist Kandis Chappell as 21-year company veteran Agatha, engage in The Heart Talk, a no-holds-barred confessional regarding a male employee’s alleged sexual harassment. It’s all part of the Behavioral Balance Committee’s commitment to maintaining an appropriate and adequate business environment. Whoever holds the red-plush heart pillow has the floor, according to Agatha’s longstanding rules.
It’s a marvelous role for Chappell, allowing her to explore the nuances of her considerable vocalism and the long “take,” which includes the deliciously slow, sarcastic burn. And yet, Chappell is in excellent company.
The two younger, ambitious secretaries are Jessica and Erika, played respectively by Globe newcomers Kate Arrington and Stephanie Beatriz. Jessica, who has an abusive boyfriend, hasn’t yet decided exactly what she wants. Perhaps it’s law school. Erika is having a covert after-hours affair with the company’s lead attorney, something special for her, something old hat for him.
Providing wisdom and ballast is another office veteran, the happily married Grace, beautifully portrayed by Starla Benford, whose extensive credits give evidence to her deep and quiet effectiveness.
One of Brandt’s (and Weisman’s) most brilliant strokes is the tone of voice and pacing elicited from the four women as they answer phone calls: the younger women initially sound like Valley Girls, the older, like precise librarians. As the balance of power changes, so do the tone and style.
Like “American Idol,” only one is left standing when the curtain falls on “Hold Please.” Weisman, a native San Diegan, unfolds her fascinating feast with precision. Watch for big things from this remarkable young playwright.
The women’s characters are supported magnificently by Mary Larson’s costumes. Set designer Michael Vaughn Sims is responsible for the sleek corporate environment, David Lee Cuthbert for the lighting design and Paul Peterson for the sound.
Anyone who’s experienced the power plays and intrigue inherent in a large company will savor this play, which was originally commissioned and produced by South Coast Repertory.
Performances take place at 7 p.m. Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays; at 8 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays; and 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Tickets are $39-$58. For tickets and information, visit www.theoldglobe.org or call (619) 23-GLOBE.
