By Larry Cavender
Contributing Writer
Weddings are usually solemn affairs, and although joyous, they are not occasions for hilarity. However, when you multiply a wedding times four and stir in an “Elvis,” as is the case of the Tater Patch Players latest production, it is a recipe for hilarious comedy.
When you add to the mix a revenge wedding, a has-been lush partnered with a pompous fruit, a reformed convict, a lovable felon, a not-too-reliable minister, and a host of other memorable characters, the result is a frolicking feast of guffaws.
The entire performance is set in Sandy’s Wedding Chapel in Las Vegas. There are four acts, each of which features a wedding, or in some cases, “attempted weddings.” The cast is a talented ensemble that includes Mel Duval, Steve Franzen, Jon Hayden, Don Hoeler, Nick Hull, Beth Leonard, Alex Nawrocki, Ellen Painter, Tyler Roper, J. Calvin Smith, Jan Weston, and Phyllis Zerkle.
Some notable performances include longtime Tater Patch veteran Alex Nawrocki as John, aka Elvis, and Beth Leonard as the delightfully brash and often profane Fiona.
Then there is Nick Hull who portrays the escaped prisoner, Fist. Although a “tough,” he is a surprisingly gentle bank robber who is only guilty of enduring love who endears himself to the audience by stealing their hearts.
The thread that ties the entire performance together is Sandy, the wedding chapel proprietor. Expertly portrayed by Phyllis Zerkle, Sandy is the only character to appear in all four acts, and understandably so, for it is her wit and wisdom in her counsel to the brides and grooms that sets the stage for the climactic final act and a “fifth” wedding.
“Four Weddings and an Elvis” is a performance not to be missed. It is advisable to make reservations in advance because last Sunday’s matinee was completely sold out.
Future performances are scheduled for Feb. 28, March 1,2, 7,8, 9 at the Tater Patch Players Theater at 95 Philadelphia Lane in Jasper.
Purchase tickets and see showtimes at taterpatchplayers.org.
