The St. Joseph’s Players of Yucca Valley opened their production of “The Nerd” last weekend. The play is about a man who comes for dinner and never leaves, and the schemes by the rest of the cast to get rid of him, without hurting his feelings. Managing editor Tami Roleff was at the opening night performance, and offers this review…
During the Vietnam War, Willum’s life was saved by a man named Rick Steadman, but Willum was unconscious and never met his savior, although they’ve corresponded over the years. So when Rick, aka the Nerd, shows up at Willum’s house one evening, Willum invites him in for dinner and instantly can’t wait for him to leave. Everything the Nerd says and does is like fingernails on a chalk board. There is absolutely nothing likable about the Nerd, and Jericho McWilliams does an outstanding job of playing the guest you love to hate. Ben Bees is also terrific as Willum, who is in love with Tansy, played by Bianca Stoker, who will be leaving soon for a new job in Washington, D.C. Shelly Sheckler is a riot as Clelia, a dinner guest who relieves her tension in a most unusual way. The entire cast—Beau Stoker, as Axel; Dave Jessup as Ticky; and Trevor Carpenter as Thor—are solidly cast by director Rebecca Havely. The costumes, set, and music will instantly transport you back to the 1970s. “The Nerd” is a funny play that will have you laughing out loud.
“The Nerd” plays at St. Joseph of Arimathea Church, 56312 Onaga Trail in Yucca Valley, through July 17, with performances at 7 p.m. Saturdays and 2:30 Sundays. Tickets for “The Nerd” are available at Align the Spine Chiropractic in Yucca Valley, or by calling 760-362-9319.
WE REVIEW “THE NERD” BY YUCCA VALLEY’S ST. JOSEPH’S PLAYERS
