“Broadway Bound” is a semi-autographical play by Neil Simon, and is the last chapter in his “Eugene” trilogy, that follows Eugene Jerome from his teenage years in “Brighton Beach Memoirs” to “Biloxi Blues” as he joins the Army, to his attempt to become a comedy writer for radio and television. The play is being performed by the St. Joseph’s Players of Yucca Valley. Managing editor Tami Roleff was at opening night at St. Joseph of Arimathea Church last week, and offers this review…
“Broadway Bound,” follows Eugene and his brother Stanley, played by Vincent Thomas and Cyrus Short, as they try to get their break as comedy writers. As the young men watch their parents’ marriage fall apart, they learn that their jokes have unforeseen consequences when art imitates life. It’s a treat to see Cyrus Short stretch in a different type of role that’s honest and energetic. Vincent Thomas as Eugene should be the star of his own play, but that honor goes to Rebecca Havely, as Eugene’s mother Kate. Havely, who also directs, comes alive as she recounts her brush 35 years ago with a famous dancer. Kate’s father, Ben, played by Bob Noble, is wonderful as a humorless but hilarious curmudgeon. Shelly Scheckler as Kate’s sister Blanche is empathetic as the now-rich woman who wants to help take care of her parents and sister. Howie Cohen as Jack, Eugene’s father and Kate’s husband, has a tough role, as the tortured husband who is planning to leave his wife of 33 years. The set and costumes are top-notch. “Broadway Bound” is a funny play, but it’s not a comedy.
“Broadway Bound plays 7 p.m. Saturday nights and 2:30 on Sunday afternoons through June 5 at St. Joseph of Arimathea Church, on the corner of Church Street and Onaga Avenue in Yucca Valley. Get a $1 discount when you buy tickets in advance at Align the Spine Chiropractic in Yucca Valley. Call 760-362-9319 for reservations.
WE REVIEW THE ST. JOSEPH’S PLAYERS, “BROADWAY BOUND”
