2’s Review: “Ripcord”
2’s Review: “Ripcord”
Excellent casting makes “Ripcord” amusingly sarcastic, but this show delivers more than just laughter but a few tears and life lessons as well.
It has all the ingredients needed to make it a top-notch show that should not be missed as it plays out on the stage of Florida Rep. Theatre.
Think of “Ripcord” as the Odd Couple using two golden girls. Actress Sara Morsey brilliantly and convincingly delivers her sassy, blunt character Abby Binder, a cranky senior living in an assisted living facility.
She’s had her room to herself for years and can’t seem to keep a roommate for a good reason until Marilyn Dunner, played by Actress Viki Boyle, brings an infectious smile to the stage as she moves in with Sara and is determined to room with her.
These characters could not be more diametrical as Marilyn is upbeat, positive, and makes the best of life, while Binder is poised, guarded, and determined to keep her emotions hidden.
After Abby tries all of her tricks to send her roommate fleeing, the two strike up a bet, and the melee begins with a laugh-a-minute. If Abby can make Marilyn angry, she’ll move out of the room.
However, if Marilyn can scare Abby, she stays and even gets Abby’s bed by the window.
When a play has you laughing from the very first few lines, you know you’re in for a good time, and this show does not disappoint. It doesn’t take long to realize it’s written by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright David Lindsay-Abaire.
The show will also have you cringing as the two breaks all of the boundaries of a polite society. While the show does have some adult language, it isn’t anything we haven’t heard before, but hearing from refined seniors makes it a bit more humorous.
What I love about this play is that it’s more than just humor. The playwright allows us to see why the characters have become who they are in this show, and their vulnerabilities allow us, the audience, to better understand.
There are also some great gotcha moments in the show which can take you on a rollercoaster of emotions.
The show is also packed with some great supporting actors who help deliver, including Darian Dauchan, who plays Scotty, part of the nursing staff who also plays referee for the two ladies.
This show has now been added to my list of favorite comedies, and I’m sure you’ll agree after seeing it.
Director Jason Parrish has delivered another great performance at Florida Repertory Theatre in Downtown Fort Myers.
The good news is there is still time to see the show as it runs through January 29th in the historic Arcade Theatre.
Tickets are available by calling the box office at 239-332-4488.