SHERMAN — Whether it is the 1981 Henry Fonda and Katherine Hepburn film version or the 2001 Christopher Plummer and Julie Andrews TV movie version, chances are you are familiar with the timeless classic On Golden Pond by Ernest Thompson. It first entered the zeitgeist in 1979 when it debuted on Broadway with Tom Aldredge and Frances Sternhagen in the leading roles. Following in that lineage The Sherman Players have revived this old chestnut under the direction of legendary local director Jane Farnol.

On Golden Pond tells the story of Norman and Ethel Thayer (Tim Breslin and Dandy Barrett, respectively), a couple on the “far end of middle age” who, as Norman relents, have once again returned to their vacation home in Maine on a lake called Golden Pond for their 48th summer. Norman is in the early stages of memory loss and Ethel is determined to have a wonderful summer, knowing this may be their last.

They are visited by their daughter Chelsea (Stacy-Lee Frome) from California and her new boyfriend Bill (Jimmy Collins), as well as Bill’s tween son Billy (Jack Hoyt). The play focuses on friendships, relationships and new beginnings.

For the most part, the script holds up forty plus years later. There are the occasional references which audience members may cringe at, but overall, the heartwarming story outweighs those references.

Farnol has done an impeccable job with every detail, from the casting down to the set, but no less would be expected from such a seasoned professional. The beautiful set design by Farnol and Al Chiappetta makes one want to permanently vacation in the Thayers’ adorable cabin.

From its dusty books and board games to the soot on the fireplace, it is perfect in its cozy rustic charm. Set decorations were courtesy of Farnol, Barrett, and Sherman Players President Steve Stott.

From the moment Barrett bursts onto the stage, the audience knows they are in for a treat. Her boundless energy and exquisite acting are a force to be reckoned with. The warmth and humor she brings to Ethel Thayer is remarkable. It feels like she was born to play this role.

Breslin holds his own and delivers a delightfully funny yet heartbreaking performance as Norman Thayer. It was wonderful to see these two paired up once again, after their enjoyable performance together in Quartet at Theatreworks New Milford in 2019 (which, by the way, also featured Ron Malyszka, who serves as Stage Manager for this production).

The cast is rounded out by Frome, who gives a heartfelt performance as Chelsea; Collins as her boyfriend and eventual husband, Bill; Rufus De Rham as mail carrier Charlie; Lynn Nissenbaum as the unseen voice of the telephone operator; and newcomer to the Sherman stage Jack Hoyt as Bill’s son Billy Ray.

Hoyt is a joy to watch. His stage presence and connection with Breslin as Norman led to excited anticipation for every scene they have together. Hopefully, we will see Hoyt on stage again very soon.

Sue Haneman has become the local go-to for costumes and there is a reason why. The costumes themselves were their own characters. The audience knew even before characters spoke, who they were based on what they were wearing. That is a true talent.

Overall, On Golden Pond is a heartwarming, enjoyable night out at the theater.

Performances continue at The Sherman Playhouse April weekends to May 13, with Friday and Saturday evening curtain and matinees on Sundays, April 30 and May 7. For tickets and more information, visit shermanplayers.org.