RIDGEFIELD - It takes one to know one. So it goes with two smooth operators on the French Riviera, in David Yasbek and Jeffrey Lane's Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, now on stage at The Ridgefield Theater Barn.

Under the direction of Jocelyn Beard, this energetic comedy is totally entertaining. The opening night audience on June 3 laughed non-stop at the cajoling and conniving that unfolded apace.

Two con artists, one feigning a royal elegance, the other a goofy imp with a charming grin, romp through a series of women they seduce and exploit. The princely Lawrence Jameson, played by Edmound Fitzpatrick, makes women swoon as they fawn over him, dropping priceless jewels in his hands. Aided by Police Chief Andre Thibault (David Fritsch), Lawrence is always in the know as to any wealthy women arriving at the seaside resort alone and loaded.

His game is growing old when low brow swindler, Freddy Benson (Duane Lanham) arrives in town in rumpled clothes carrying an army issue duffel bag. He is a wise cracking twist on the ladies man. Initially rejected outright by Lawrence, Freddy becomes essential when Lawrence finds himself inadvertently engaged to shotgun slinging oil heiress Jolene Oakes (Missy Slaymaker-Hanlon), who plans to drag him home to Oklahoma. Freddy helps Lawrence unstick himself from the hard charging Ms Oakes. Hence, their tomfoolery begins.

Wealthy Muriel Eubanks (Paulette Layton) falls hard for Lawrence. Realizing she has been scammed, she goes on a mission to catch yet another single gentleman.

When the beautiful and fabulously rich soap queen Christine Colgate (Anya Caravella) arrives on the scene, all bets are off as both con men angle for her affections. All this commotion plays out with the interaction of a terrific ensemble including Cheryl Boyd, Shawn Brown, Maya Daley, Suzanne Fritsch and Jacquelyn Quinn.

Edmound Fitzpatrick plays a perfectly polished cad. His Lawrence demonstrates a lovely vocal capacity and a flair for comedy in an old Hollywood style. He is both broad and contained in his portrayal.

David Fritsch, as the loyal playmaker to Lawrence, is wonderful, subtle, deadpan and very funny. He intones a perfect French accent as well.

Duane Lanham is a scene stealing phenom extraordinaire. His antics are wildly funny and perfectly delivered. He has boundless energy. His physical and vocal comedic chops are on full display in this part, and he wastes not a moment on stage.

With only one number, Missy Slaymaker-Hanlon brings down the house as Jolene Oakes. She rattles Lawrence's cage with fierce determination to lasso her man. She is just terrific.

With a lovely bluesy sort of voice, Paulette Layton imbues her Muriel with the vibe of both coy ingénue and vixen.

The always engaging and vocally gifted Anya Caravella presents a delightful portrayal of the innocent and enchanting Christine.

The onstage orchestra is wonderful as they accompany and interact with this superb cast.

For a bonsoir, pack a picnic, throw in a bottle of something French, and enjoy a hilarious evening on the French Riviera. You will have no regrets!

Performances continue Friday and Saturday evenings at 8 pm, and Sundays at 5, through July 2.

Tickets are $26 for adults, $22 for seniors, veterans, and students, and can be purchased online at ridgefieldtheaterbarn.org.

Due to adult content and language, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels is recommended for mature audiences.

Ridgefield Theater Barn is located at 37 Halpin Lane; cabaret seating, bring food & beverage, doors open one hour prior to curtain.

 

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