SITV Brings the Funny with 'Comedy of Errors'

By Darcie Flansburg
The Real Critics Editor/Publisher

Shakespeare in the Vines’ “Comedy of Errors” offered an evening of pure comedy. From the 20th Century Fox opening to the rubber chicken sword fighting the production pulled out all the stops.
The show opens with Aegeon, played by Walter Savell, on trial in Ephesus. His monologue explains how his twin sons and their twin servants were separated by a storm years before. The rather lengthy monologue (the longest in the Shakespeare canon) was acted out by the ensemble. This began the slap-stick style as the ensemble yelled “yay” and “boo” in reaction to Aegeon’s story, holding up signs to encourage the audience to join in.
I have seen the opening monologue acted out in a few “Comedy of Errors” productions, but none were quite as energetic as SITV’s. And that was just the beginning of the show!
Director John Edward Clark also added an Arabian Nights theme that greatly catered to the slap-stick comedy. Clark should also be commended for his casting choices. Ninety percent of directing is casting and Clark did a fine job.
Every character had a quirk, and every scene was played out in well-timed comedic beats. What would have made the emphasis even better would be the use of sound effects or random instruments on stage. Someone could have used a kazoo or a slide whistle and only enhance the flavor of the show.
Though every actor brought great zeal to their characters, there are a few worth mentioning that truly went above and beyond.
David Caldwell, who played Antipholus of Syracuse, was in his element as the confused Antipholus who was continually taken to be his twin brother, that of Ephesus. Over the years Caldwell has truly grown as an actor and his comedic timing has gotten better and better. Add some rubber chicken sword fighting to the mix and you’ve got a gut buster.
Patrick Bailey, who played Dromio of Syracuse, had everyone rolling in the isles at Frangipani Winery as he told his master Antipholus of Luce, the kitchen wench that “assaulted” him. Having also seen SITV’s “Much Ado” earlier this season, it was refreshing to see the breath and depth of Bailey’s comedic stylings. His Dogberry had an entirley different flare than his Dromio, and both were very well executed. (Note: as a director I was saddened to see that Bailey would be leaving the area this fall, but happy to see that he would be pursuing a bachelor’s in English. Bailey, minor or double major in theatre, your chops shouldn’t be wasted.)
Christopher “Kit” Fugrad also appeared to be right at home as the other Dromio (of Ephesus). Fugrad egged on the audience to repeat after him, acted utterly confused by his master’s ever-changing mind and tried not be beaten by all who he offended. Like the aforementioned, Fugrad is another actor that embodies the comedic style as if it were second skin. It is always a joy to watch actors who do not appear to be “acting” on stage, but living in the moment. This is actor Zen, this is perfection.
Annalice Heinz played a sweet and silly Luciana, the love of Antipholus of Syracuse. Heinz was the perfect foil to Brittany Richardson’s hot-headed Adriana, who spent the majority of the play seeking out her husband, Antiphlus of Ephesus, played by Joe Arriaga.
But, I have to say, that Chelsea Pope was the topping on the cake of this production as the conjurer Pinch. Pope smiled wildly and cooed inappropriately at the confused Antipholi. Just her presence on stage made the entire audience giggle. The show was more of a spoof, but, as a fervent Shakespeare fan, it was a real treat.

Shakespeare in the Vines’ “Comedy of Errors” continues 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, August 28 and 29 at the Frangipani Winery in Temecula. Information/Tickets: www.shakespeareinthevines.org.