A note from the news room
<p><em>Photo courtesy of Karen and Neal Lewing</em></p> <p>Sarah Doyle as Janet, Karen Lewing as Louise and Neal Lewing as Wally in Wally's Cafe, now playing at the John Dowdall Theater</p>
"Life is getting through it. If you have a few laughs along the way, you're way ahead of the game," Wally, played by Neal Lewing, tells his wife Louise, played by Karen Lewing in "Wally's Cafe" now playing at the John Dowdall Theater.
If you are, indeed, looking for a few laughs, than I'd recommend checking out the Port Polson Players' latest production, a show that is both funny and touching.
Set in the Nevada desert, the play follows Wally, Louise and aspiring actress Janet (played by Sarah Doyle) as they struggle to keep their hamburger joint running.
The play takes place entirely in the cafe and focuses on the ever-shifting relationships of the three characters. It's a script that, in the wrong hands, could become deathly dull.
But not so with Karen, Neal and Doyle in the lead roles. In fact, their combination of chemistry, energy and nuanced acting kept me thoroughly engaged throughout the three-act show.
All three play off each other well, but some of my favorite moments occurred in the quieter scenes when the stage was occupied by only two actors.
One such scene takes place between Louise and Janet in the second act, when the two haggard waitresses sit down at a table, spike their morning cups of coffee and talk about ways to get through life.
Another favorite moment occurred in the third act when Louise and Wally discuss the life that they have lead together. The nostalgia and warmth that Karen and Neal infused into the scene brought tears to my eyes.
Be sure to check out "Wally's Cafe," playing at the John Dowdall Cafe Theater in Boettcher Park, Wednesdays-Sundays through July 17. For more information on the show and the Port Polson Players call 883-9212 or visit portpolsonplayers.com.