In this play, running through June 27 at the Half Moon Bay theater, a small cast takes advantage of Neil Simon’s witty writing, noteworthy acting chops and a 1940s musical backdrop to realistically re-create the sounds, words, fears, dreams, and thinking of World War II.
It’s all seen through the impressionable eyes of new Army recruit Eugene Morris Jerome, Simon’s fictional yet autobiographical counterpart, played appealingly and personably by Lucas Gust.
 New recruits, including Eugene Morris Jerome (Lucas Gust, far left) stand at attention as hard-nosed Sgt. Toomey (Evan Saunders, far right) chews them out in "Biloxi Blues." |
Williams’ and Paul Smith’s minimalist set rightly focuses attention on the web of personal journeys.
The direction is relaxed, befitting a humid Southern boot camp, yet polished with attention to detail like the right way to stand at attention. The actors beautifully capture the lives, mindsets and conflicts of tense young soldiers unsure of themselves and of their futures.
James Bailey dominates the bunkhouse as the brash Wykowski. Bjoern Geske gives Selridge some similarly strong moments. Brendan Quirk as self-styled crooner Carney has some fine moments with song and a light touch.
Simon’s uncompromising take on how the convictions of the era crushed those caught on the wrong side is well handled by Rob Hedges as the searingly self-possessed Epstein, the lone Jew among the recruits, and Zachary Stone as Hennesey, who carries a damning secret. Evan Saunders as hard-nosed, on-the-edge Sgt. Toomey, does an admirable job, especially since he stepped into the role late after another actor left the show.
The play is filled with stage snapshots of the times that are well-acted and unapologetic. There is clear contrast between its two female characters, the prostitute Rowena (Anastasia Mandeville) with whom Eugene has an encounter she and Gust render endearingly, and Daisy Hannigan, Eugene’s first love, rendered with fresh-faced wholesomeness by Hillary DeWitt.
Bottom line: It’s a long, long way to the present day, but this play is a slice of yesteryear worth experiencing.
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