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Salem Community Theatre ‘Church Basement Ladies’ is entertaining
By Eric McCrea
salem
If you love “Nunsense” but find it too edgy and too “Catholic,” then the Salem Community Theatre’s latest production “Church Basement Ladies” is perfect for you.
Back in 1964, Minnesota had two kinds of people; city folk and country. Cornucopia is definitely the latter, and proud of it, especially Mrs. Snusted, played by Jody Lewis. Even Pastor Gunderson (Gary Kekel) doesn’t outrank her when it comes to basement duties. With her faithful sidekick Mavis (Pastor Kari Lankford) by her side, Mrs. Snusted is ready to keep church functions traditional, but when Signe, played by Ally DePanicis, returns from the U, some things might have to change. Lucky Signe’s mother Karin (Rosalyn Blystone) is around to mediate.
Director Mark Frost gathered some of the most talented ladies in the area, packing the theatre on opening night. Busy choreography by Joanna Andrei kept the show interesting. Kitchen movements were fine-tuned down to the last detail, incorporating percussion and the symbiotic cooperation that develop when people work closely together in a limited space, adding a lot of realism.
Kekel was charming as the gentle pastor. His natural calmness and personable demeanor enhanced his performance and complemented his soothing singing voice. His vocals were precise but subtle, reminiscent of the great Fred Rogers.
Lewis was blessedly wicked as the uptight Mrs. Snusted, but as is common in these types of stories, she faces a moment when she has to decide whether or not to embrace change. Lewis captures that moment perfectly and sweetly while still holding on to a bit of her stubbornness. Her character was aptly summed up in the song “The Cities.”
Blystone was a pillar as the motherly Karin Engleson. Her vocals were powerful, but it felt as if she had to hold back so as to not completely bring down the room. She was especially great in the ensemble song “This Is Most Certainly True.” Her only fault is that she doesn’t look old enough to be playing the mother of a college student.
DePanicis was a perfect balance of modern and traditional, as the young girl balancing on the edge of a revolution. She defies Mrs. Snusted and stirs up some trouble without seeming arrogant or naive. She had an optimistic outlook of the future while being firmly rooted in the traditions of her culture.
Lankford was the standout of the evening. Her character had some of the best lines, and Lankford delivered them with the wonderful timing skills of Ann B. Davis. She showed confidence on stage, as if the audience were visiting her living room.
The set was remarkably well done, including some very vintage looking appliances. Costumes added to the feeling of the era, and some quick costume changes kept the show moving at a steady pace.
The script was a weak point for this production. Very few of the songs were catchy, and though there were some hilarious bits and great zingers, the story lacked any palpable conflict or driving force. Despite this, the talented cast managed to make the night entertaining.
“Church Basement Ladies” will run at 2 p.m. today and next Sunday, and at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday. For reservations, call 330-332-9688.