‘Everything Old is New Again’

Paul Osborn’s play, “Morning’s at Seven,” is a gentle satire on small-town life, with busybodies and petty jealousies and although there may be conflict, the characters have more fun—and are fun to be around!

The treat of “Morning’s at Seven” is in the cast. Five strong, distinctive women actors play against four equally strong, spirited men. Amelia Chiaramonte is forthright and decisive as eldest sister Esther, tolerant of her self-righteous professor husband, David.

Lisa Meckes, as Cora, has an earnest, pained demeanor, always attuned to understanding and supporting others. Tara Shaw, as the prospective bride, has a demeanor so cheerful, sociable, and polite that she is almost frightening in her desire to be accepted. Claire Parrella-Curran, as unmarried sister Aaronetta is powerful, well-spoken and intermittently menacing—the difficult sibling whom all must support.

Clare Lowell is convincing as the compassionate, if somewhat ditzy, wife of Carl, her emotionally troubled husband played by Dan Bubbeo. Bubbeo is terrific as the comically lugubrious husband, given to spells of despair. Bryan McGowan is persuasive as the dry, haughty curmudgeon David. He beautifully conveys the wistfulness beneath his professional bluster.

Brian Tomek does a fine job as the awkward, altar-shy bachelor, Homer. His awkward gestures and facial expressions give credence to his shy demeanor. Jack Hartman is ideally cast as the gentlemanly Theodore. He delivers the many good lines the playwright has given him with wry, well-timed humor.

Director Sister Grace Rowland sets a sparkling, quick pace to this character-based piece, providing plenty of quirks and lots of laughter. With impeccable accuracy, Rowland sets a tone of gentleness that never wanes. This estimable ensemble works together like a well-oiled machine.

Set in 1939, “Morning’s at Seven” revisits a bygone era that brings the realization that, though the lifestyle depicted may be gone, the fear and despair that accompany aging and the binding ties of family connections are timeless. This play is gratifyingly entertaining; a bit like looking through an old photo album that could belong to anyone’s family. The title comes from a cheery Robert Browning poem that ends, “God’s in His heaven. All’s right with the world…”

“Morning’s at Seven” is an optimistic parable that shows how a family that’s sometimes at loggerheads might still be able to care about one another and get along. Performances continue March 6, 7, 13, 14 at 8 p.m. and March 8 and 15 at 3 p.m. For tickets and information call the box office at 631-654-0199. n