REVIEW O. Henry's 'Red Chief' evokes the customary enthusiasm

This play will entertain the whole family.
By L. CROW
VINDICATOR CORRESPONDENT
Although many local theater groups have made a clear distinction between their youth and adult presentations, Salem Community Theater is one that seems to have made a commitment to integrating everyone from children to older adults into their mainstage plays, resulting in a sort of old-fashioned, true community gathering.
And it must be working, because diverse audiences are enthusiastic about whomever is on stage, creating an all-around pleasant, supportive and enjoyable atmosphere for this theater's productions.
O. Henry's "The Ransom of Red Chief," directed by Dave Wack and Josh Kruegel, has just opened and is a prime example of a family-oriented production.
The main character is a little boy who calls himself "Red Chief," played by Dylan White, and what a misbehaved brat he is! When two young men set out to kidnap him, hoping to extort ransom money from his wealthy uncle, they don't have a clue what they're getting into.
The play is set "in a small town, a few years ago; summer."
Sorry kidnappers
Sam (Thomas Legaurd) and Bill (Joshua Comm) make their snatch, and they take Red Chief to the cave in the woods. But it turns out they are more captured than him. Little Red, who thinks he is on a camp-out, is having great fun, and finally has someone to play with.
Unfortunately for his captors, Red's idea of fun means causing the two scoundrels pain, as he kicks, bites and tries to set one on fire.
Meanwhile, the rest of the townspeople notice a pleasant calm with the absence of Red Chief, who has a reputation for being the town's biggest little trouble. Not only do they not miss him, they also are relieved he is gone.
The men still follow through with their ransom note, however.
Salem, like most of these tiny theaters, has limited space to work with, and it is always amazing how a well-designed set can create the illusion of a large area. The cave scene is a very tall painted backdrop, with additional props for trees and rocks, which opens up the stage and provides visual interest.
XThe play continues today and next Sunday at 2 p.m., and next Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. Call (330) 332-9688.