Boeing Boeing brings jets full of laughter
One man. Three fiancées. One Parisian apartment. What could possibly go wrong? The Bermuda Musical and Dramatic Society’s latest production, Boeing Boeing, answers this very question, and delivers surprises and barrels of laughs from beginning to end.
The farce, written by Marc Camoletti and directed by Robbie Godfrey, stars Geoffrey Faiella as the sly architect Bernard, who is engaged to three different flight attendants — the passionate American Gloria portrayed by Lucy Russell, the vibrant Italian Gabriella performed by Kate Farmer, and the youthful German Gretchen played by Allie Zuckerman.
Bernard manages the relationships with help from his wisecracking housekeeper Berthe, portrayed by Donna Nicholson, and a very detailed flight schedule, but things spiral out of control when Robert, Bernard’s old college friend played by Gregg Smith, visits.
Doors slam, objects are hidden and Berthe and the men try to keep the stewardesses occupied, and their sanity intact, as, in true farce fashion, circumstances force everyone into the apartment at the same time.
Every actors’ timing and performances are terrific. Smith stands out; he is completely over-the-top in the best possible way and never stays still throughout the entire two acts.
Zuckerman’s charm and lust for life is also fantastic and she and Smith feed off each other on stage and in their unforgettable first encounter.
Despite all the confusion and high jinks, the play has a surprisingly satisfying ending that may lead audiences to actually side with a selfish womaniser.
Those looking for a thought-provoking drama that will change their lives should look elsewhere, but being entertained by Boeing Boeing’s unique premise, hysterical slapstick and great performances is “not impossible”.
• Boeing Boeing, written by Marc Camoletti, runs until May 9 at Daylesford Theatre starting at 7.30pm. Tickets for an extra show on May 6 are available viaPtix.bm
