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It’s just Sex

Reviewed by Lovell Estell III
Secret Rose Theatre
Through Oct. 26

As sexually-themed comedies go, Jeff Gould’s tale of “lust and trust” is a rice paper thin mattress that sometimes bounces, sometimes tears.

Things get started when Phil (John Colella) is caught by his wife Joan (Reamy Hall) playing grab-ass with a prostitute (Claudia Graf). It so happens that this unfortunate discovery takes place on the evening when they are hosting a couples party for long-time friends Kelly and Carl (Betsy Russell and Vincent Spano), and Greg and Lisa (Andy Hirsch and Stephanie Fredericks). All of these 30-somethings suffer from some level of dysfunction in their relationships.

The initial drinking, bantering, and game-playing turns slightly funnier — and darker — when an offhand suggestion to swap partners turns into a night of sexual dalliance (all done in shadow behind lighted screens, with plenty of mawkish, overwrought sound effects designed by director Rick Shaw). It is the aftermath of their indiscretions that imparts some discernible heft to this otherwise wearisome production (under Shaw’s ponderous direction), where all are forced to confront the truths about themselves and what they have done.

The production is somewhat elevated by the quality of the performances, but that’s not enough to salvage it.

The Secret Rose Theater, 11246 Magnolia Blvd., N. Hlywd.; Fri.-Sat., 8 pm.; Sun. 7:30 pm.; through Oct. 26, (818) 762-2272, itsjustsexplay.com