FALL RIVER -- Susan Sandler's
"Crossing Delancey" is a perky romantic comedy, at once amiable and airy. The
Little Theatre of Fall River's production of it is given charm and sass by a
winning cast. Set in New
York City in the present, "Crossing Delancey" presents a classic clash of
tradition with the contemporary. It showcases terrific characters who enchant
and amuse with their quirks and notions. Sarah Deston is Isabelle, Izzy as
her friends and family call her (the role enacted by Amy Irving in the 1988
movie). She does not want to cling to old, outdated ways and have her
grandmother hire a matchmaker to find her a husband. In fact, Izzy isn't even
certain she wants a husband, now or at any time in the foreseeable future.
Ms. Deston is
captivating and delectable as Isabelle. She is perky and poised, endearing, just
right for this role. You can't help but like her. Cathy Taitz delivers a polished
comic gem as Bubbie, Izzy's grandmother. Ms. Taitz glides through the evening
with winsome wit, impeccable timing and a down-to-earth manner that is
irresistible. Pamela
Jackson creates another comic gem as the matchmaker, Hannah. Her passion for
weddings is matched only by her passion for food -- any kind of food, any time
of day. Ms. Jackson piles on the laughs the way she piles food on her plate, in
an endless supply. John
Ashley is the faux suave, notorious writer whom Izzy fancies in her
wildest dreams of romance. Mr. Ashley is right on the mark as the egotistical
minor writer with his own best opinion of himself and his writing. Finally, there is Sam, the pickle
man. Jeff Belanger plays him with verve and sincerity, and just the right
touches. He's a wonderful foil for all the wackiness, with a solid dependability
that evokes respect and sympathy, not an easy task considering all the wildness
swirling about him. Ron
Robinson directs it all with a fine touch, keeping everything bright and breezy,
wacky without going overboard. (No small feat.) He makes the most of his
exceptional cast and delivers a brisk romantic comedy that is vastly
entertaining. The set he
designed is excellent and captures with grace and style the atmosphere of
Bubbie's apartment, the bookstore where Izzy works, and a park bench. It will be presented again at the
Firebarn theater, Prospect Street and Highland Avenue, at 8 tonight through
Saturday and at 7 p.m. Sunday. For ticket information, call (508) 674-1852.
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