Effective performances by Paula Cohan (Aunt Abbey), Bonnie Cate (Aunt Martha), and Gary Moran (Mortimer) were the key factors in the success of “Arsenic and Old Lace.” The TC Players’ recent production was much enhanced by the characterizations of these three performers.
The two aunts, who could best be described as a couple of sweet, kind, lecherous old sweethearts, added a special touch of hilarity to the already humorous situation. Both Paula and Bonnie’s character portrayals, according to one critic, were “appealing.” They did an excellent job, both individually and in combination.
Gary Moran gave an outstanding performance as Mortimer, the one Brewster who still had his sanity. The believable portrayal of this nervous young man was due much to the fact that Gary, as Mortimer, maintained his character throughout the play.
Roy Autry, as the Frankenstein-faced Jonathan; Gwen Owen, as Mortimer’s fiancée, Elaine; Larry Hogue, as skulking Dr. Einstein; and Haley Clark, as pushy Officer O’Hara, also did excellent jobs.
The play was warmly received by both Friday and Saturday night’s audiences, according to Mrs. Mildred Parson, director. As the culmination of many weeks of work, “Arsenic and Old Lace” was not only funny but also enjoyable and entertaining. If you did not see it, you missed a pleasing evening of laughter.