Theater 82 Celebrates 10th Annual One-Act Fest

Theater 82, part of the Artists’ Exchange on Rolfe St in Cranston, celebrates the 10^th season of its popular Summer One-Act Play Festival July 17 through August 8. An overwhelming 2,000 entries were received this year, so the committee read until their eyes were bleary. But they were able to choose the 16 best out of the mix to present to the public. The first group (known as Wave One) of eight plays is a terrific, energetic mix of comedy and action — there’s even a commentary on modern day behavior. These short plays, with fresh ideas, directed with a lively touch, can be seen again this weekend.

The One-Act Festival is a wonderful opportunity to see new work by both local and national playwrights. Each is short, so if one doesn’t catch your fancy, the next will. Three local playwrights have work in the first Wave: Kevin Broccoli’s We’re Still Fun, Right? is about a couple wondering if their party days are over; Ben Jolivet’s If Everyone Acted Like John Boehner is exactly as it sounds; and Roger Lemelin’s The Front Porch puts a twist on the age-old activity of people-watching. Adding to the local vibe, all music for the fest is supplied by local musicians through the 75orless Music Label. And “Paintings by Madeleine” are for sale, and included as part of the set.

There are two dark comedies included in this Wave, both directed by David Kane. Fixing Bob, by David MacGregor, is a favorite as two cheery mid-western wives, played with perfect accents by Jessica Chace and Lauren Annicelli, discuss a most unusual birthday present awaiting one of their husbands. The other is Anniversary by Sam Wallin, which starts out as sweet, but evolves into a brawl with overturned furniture.  It is interrupted by a duo with a singing telegram. Thanks to David Ferranti and Bedros Kevorkian for the lovely melodic interlude. 

Stefan Lanfer gives new meaning to Helicopter Parents for Hire as Kate Lester directs this rampant anarchy without harming any patrons.  Wedding Belles by Brett Hursey gives the story of the harried bride a double twist. Goodnight Irene by Rhea MacCallum allows two people to salvage something out of disaster with the nuanced acting of Tom Chace and Lauren Annicelli.

It is also refreshing to see that this One-Act Fest has given equal opportunity to women writers and directors. Although artistic director Jessica Chace and music director Tom Chace said, “We found that the percentage of women-written plays submitted was about what articles claim is the number produced nationally. That’s about 17%.” So don’t hide your work at home, women writers, send it out.

Don’t forget to catch the “Second Wave” of eight new plays starting on July 31. There are snacks as well as alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages available before the show and during intermission. For more information go to artists-exchange.org or call 401-490-9475.