by Diana Goldammer

Best Little Theatre in Mitchell

The ACT season kicks off with a southern drawl and a few pairs of boots.  Not to mention a few low-cut dresses!

Libby Williams, director, and Devin Carey, assistant director and choreographer, aim to please in the season opener, “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas.”  Warned about mature themes and language, I was ready for a show geared for adults.  The script had its bawdy moments, but the costumes were no racier than anything you’d see on prime-time television.

The basic story line is that a well-known establishment on the edge of a small Texas town is brought to the state’s attention and the town’s leaders struggle to calm the media firestorm and bring life back to normal.  It has all the elements of a comedic drama – the politician, the newsman looking to make a name for himself, and the townspeople, including the sheriff, who know and love the ladies of the Chicken Ranch.

Devin Carey was the hit of the show as a dancing Texas A&M Aggie getting ready to spend an evening at the Chicken Ranch with his teammates.  His dancing, energy and enthusiasm carried the show.  My only complaint was that they guys only got to do one number.

Susan Thie as Miss Mona carried a delightful tune in her many solos.  Her voice is crystal clear and something to enjoy.

Chris Lippert did a great side-step as the Texas governor.  I’m sure he’s not the first politician to dance, but he was certainly the most entertaining one.

Lacey Laurendeau’s rich voice and her spunky attitude made her appearances something to wait for.

Paul Zeller played Melvin P Thorpe, and did a fine job being the character you loved to hate.  His white patent-leather shoes just screamed 1970.

And then there was Al Jacklin, the sheriff of ‘this here town,’ who did his best to keep peace.  His language was probably the most objectionable, but his character probably the most fun to play.

Great vocal performances were given by Cheri Hamilton, who also got in more than her share of great one-liners, Chelsea Johnson and Melody Howell.  As the new girls at the Ranch, Johnson and Howell were often the center of attention.

Aaron Krumhoz was one of many characters who played multiple characters, and his rendition of Edsel Mackey, newspaper editor, was great for a few laughs.

The entire cast of this production appeared to have worked hard to put on a great season opener.  No lines were dropped, no cues missed, and they all looked like they were having fun.

The backstage crew deserves a round of applause, because the set itself was fun to watch.  The lighting never missed a cue, the musicians never missed a beat, and no matter where in the theatre the cast performed, the sound was great.

Be sure to make your way to the theater this weekend for some Texas-style entertainment.