STAGE REVIEW 'Overtime' at YSU gives Shakespeare a sequel

The comedy takes up where 'Merchant of Venice' leaves off with very funny results.
By GARRY L. CLARK
VINDICATOR STAFF WRITER
YOUNGSTOWN -- The Youngstown State University theater season opened Thursday evening with its production of A.R. Gurney's "Overtime" in the Spotlight Arena Theater.
Full of very funny moments, the comedy takes a twist at what might have happened to Shakespeare's character's from "The Merchant of Venice" after their adventures. Of course, added to the twist is that the action now takes place in contemporary times and Venice has morphed into America. Some familiarity with Shakespeare's play would be helpful for those attending, but isn't necessary.
The plot
Those convolutions aside, what we have here is the lovely Portia, brilliantly portrayed by Lorraine Spencer, a once-rich society debutante (think Reese Witherspoon in "Legally Blonde") who is about to celebrate her victory in the trial as well as her marriage to Bassanio, ably played by Robert J. Greaves.
Just as things are getting started, Portia is reminded by her accountant, Salerio (Alexi Stavrou), of her own financial problems. Salerio as well has difficulties of his own as he is realizing that he is falling in love with Portia.
Ignoring his warnings, Portia and Bassanio's wedding reception commences to implode when Antonio (Chris Casanta) is knocked down by Bassanio, who blames his family background for his actions.
The couple's servants, Gratiano (Michael King) and Nerissa (Erin Marie Schwartz), have become impatient with their lot in life while Lorenzo (Darin Munnell) is discovering that his attraction to Jessica (Stena J. Buck) may be based on reverse stereotyping even while Jessica undertakes her own self-deliverance from her traditional upbringing.
Enter Shylock (Bernard J. Wilkes IV), the erstwhile enemy from Shakespeare's play, with surprises of his own as he persuades Portia to try to put the little group back together in a spirit of diversity and acceptance.
The cast performed excellently, and the comedy flowed almost effortlessly as the twists and turns of stereotypes and prejudices illuminated in the plot served to showcase mankind's attending foibles in virtually all groups.
Ms. Spencer's performance was of special note as she easily imbued her character with a deep awareness of her shallowness but remained lovable throughout. Wilkes, too, was impeccable as Shylock who is coming to terms -- almost-- with the many changes that society has undergone.
Behind the scenes
Dr. Frank Castronovo serves as director of this piece. The well-wrought set was designed by Gregory W. Clepper, and Todd Dicken serves as scenic designer. Costuming by Jane Shanabarger was well beyond par.
Also among the many working behind the scenes to make this a successful production are Nicole Valley and Kim Piatek, assistant stage managers; Derek Kasper, Jessie Kasper, Nicholas Chiarella and Kristina Weaver, technical assistants; J. Anthony Ferrello, master electrician; and Adam Thatcher, lights.