Treva Tegtmeier, Caitlin Gallogly and Lori Berg (Photo by John Dlugolecki)
Reviewed by Iris Mann
Actors Co-op David Schall Theatre
Through June 8
RECOMMENDED
The Spitfire Grill, which reportedly has been performed more than 250 times around the world, premiered at the George Street Playhouse in New Jersey in 2000 and off-Broadway at Playwrights Horizons the following year. Directed by Bonnie Hellman, the musical is currently receiving a first-rate rendering at the Actors Co-op. The key elements of this production — music and book by James Valeg, lyrics and book by the late Fred Alley, direction by Bonnie Hellman, and performances by a splendid cast — come together smoothly to create an inspirational, heartfelt piece of theater.
The musical is based on the 1996 film of the same title by writer/director David Zlotoff, albeit the storylines diverge towards the end. The film is darker, while the play culminates on a softer, more poignant note that leaves it to the audience to decide how the pivotal relationships will turn out. There are also some meaningful revelations along the way that enhance the play’s impact.
The story takes place in the 1990s, as Percy Talbott (Hannah Howzdy) is being paroled from prison after serving five years. She was intrigued by photos of a town called Gilead in Wisconsin and asks to be relocated there. Upon her arrival, Sheriff Joe Sutter (Gavin Michael Harris), who also happens to be her parole officer, tries unsuccessfully to discourage her from settling in this essentially dead place where nothing is happening and there are no real opportunities. Unable to change her mind, he takes her to the one eatery in town, The Spitfire Grill, and talks its resistant owner, Hannah Ferguson (Lori Berg), into hiring the young woman as her helper. Soon Percy meets Caleb Thorpe (Spencer Rowe), Hannah’s nephew, who was once the foreman at the now defunct town quarry.
When Hannah has an accident, Percy, who knows nothing about running a diner and can’t cook, has to take over. But, with the help of Caleb’s shy, retiring wife, Shelby (Caitlin Gallogly), she gradually becomes more proficient. Soon, encouraged by Percy’s suggestion, Hannah, who has wanted to sell the Grill for ten years, decides to hold a raffle for the diner. Applications pour in from around the country, as people send $100 along with an essay explaining why they want to own the Grill. However, events soon move in a different direction.
Several of the issues explored in the play, such as repentance, forgiveness, deliverance and grace are Judeo-Christian themes. These fit well with the mission of the Actors Co-op, a company of Christian actors dedicated to supporting its membership’s spiritual, personal and professional lives.
The book — well-constructed, uplifting and filled with surprises — keeps the audience engaged. In addition, the music provides a strong anchor for the action and evokes the sense of a folksy Midwest. The lyrics are particularly notable for interchanging seamlessly with the dialogue, so that they seem to be an extension of the spoken word.
Director Hellman has sculpted a tight and skillfully paced production. Under her deft control, every element of the plot is presented with clarity and strength. She has also assembled an impressive cast, whose voices often soar with emotion as each character undergoes a critical transformation.
Caleb, now unemployed, longs for the past — he’s embittered by his current circumstances and callously controls his wife. Rowe is so convincing that one takes an immediate dislike to the character, which turns to sympathy as Rowe sings Digging Stone, expressing Caleb’s inner pain and loss of pride.Harris, as the Sheriff, projects a steady, likable and sincere quality that makes the character very appealing
Without saying a word Ben Kientz as a mysterious stranger stimulates curiosity and a feeling of expectation.
But it is the women who are most crucial to the plot. Howzdy, with her rich voice, impressively navigates Percy’s journey from a tough, defensive young woman to an integrated, loving member of the community.
Berg gives a totally realized performance as the crusty Grill owner, occasionally given to wisecracks. Her portrayal hints at bitterness and regret, when Hannah lets her hair down in the number Forgotten Lullaby. At moments, Berg’s voice expands into a larger-than-life force.
In the role of Effy, the town’s postmaster and chief busybody, Treva Tegtmeier contributes a whiff of rueful humor. She is on point as a woman prone to adding fictitious details and speculations about Percy, the newcomer who appears weird to some of the more conventional town residents.
Finally, Gallogly is a standout as the once retiring, dominated wife who finds her voice while working at the Grill under Percy’s influence. The character’s transformation is and in The Colors of Paradise, her duet with Howzdy, her sparkling soprano shines.
Acknowledgement is also due to music director Stephen Van Dorn, scenic designer Tim Farmer, lighting designer Nick Foran, and sound designer Marc Antonio Pritchett.
Actors Co-op, David Schall Theatre, 1760 N. Gower St., Hollywood; Fri.-Sat., 7:30 pm, Sun., 2:30 pm; Sat., May 17, 3 pm and May 31, 2:30 pm; thru June 8. https://www.actorsco-op.org/ Running time: two hours and 10 minutes with a 15 minute intermission.
