The Golden Girls are on the road and coming back

THE BASICS:The Golden Girls: The Lost Episodes – Volume 5 — “Golden is the New Black” at O’Connell & Company on the Main Stage, 4110 Bailey Avenue, Amherst 14226. July 11-21. For tickets, call the box office at 716-848-0800 or visit www.oconnellandcompany.com. Play by David Cerda. Directed by Todd Warfield.

A Shady Pines 2 production.

THUMBNAIL SKETCH:

Buffalo’s geriatric “Fab Four” return with new episodes of this cheeky parody of America’s favorite sitcom. Join Dorothy, Rose, Blanche, Sophia and their wacky friends and relatives for all-new adventures.

Episode 1: Caged Miami Heat – Find out what happens when the girls are arrested and thrown in jail for the murder of their long-lost cook, Coco.

Episode 2: Murder on the Sicilian Express – Sophia has been murdered and all the girls have a motive to kill her! Luckily, Cabot Cove’s Jessica Fletcher is in town to help catch the killer in this crossover episode between The Golden Girls and Murder on the Sicilian Express. Which girl finally got tired of Sophia enough to kill her?

No person under 18 years of age will be admitted without being accompanied by an adult.

DURATION: approximately two hours and 15 minutes (with a 10-minute intermission)

THE PLAYERS, THE PLAY AND THE PRODUCTION:

This Golden Girls play, like the others Todd Warfield has directed here in WNY, was written by Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame inductee David Cerda. These plays are drag parodies of the award-winning sitcom that ran from 1985 to 1992 and is still popular in reruns. Four women over 50 share a house in Miami and support each other through thick and thin. We are fortunate here in WNY to receive David Credo’s new “volumes” regularly through Shady Pines 2 Production and O’Connell & Company.

Thanks to director Todd Warfield! This is an enjoyable production with great costumes (by Mr. Warfield and Joey Bucheker) and a perfect 80’s set by Todd Warfield.

As usual, Matt Rittler is very solid as Sophia – although I remember him leaning in a bit more, using a slightly higher voice in the past, and paying more attention to Sophia’s ever-present handbag. Mr. Rittler provides plenty of laughs – he even manages to tickle the audience when Sophia is a corpse. The improvisations and silliness throughout the show were reminiscent of The Carol Burnett Show and were very entertaining.

Michael “Bebe” Blasdell has played Blanche in all volumes of these productions and is fabulous and once again delivers a dynamic performance. As a bonus, Bebe has an expressive face and uses it wonderfully.

The other original cast member is Joey Bucheker as Rose. Mr. Bucheker has always been adorable in the role — wide-eyed, sweet and naive. And Rose’s monologues about St. Olaf are always a highlight of the production.

Michael Seitz has been playing Dorothy for several volumes. Mr. Seitz is a terrific actor, both in drama and comedy. I still laugh when I remember his performance as the bland nightclub singer in Poseidon. This time around, Mr. Seitz’s performance as Dorothy is unsettling. Yes, there’s the face, the voice, the posture, and the attitude. There are also the chuckles in the speeches. There are the nods. There are most of the lines spoken directly to the camera. Mr. Seitz masters all the nuances of Bea Arthur as Dorothy. His performance alone is worth the price of admission.

The cast includes five other actors who provide enthusiastic support to the Golden Girls. Vinny Murphy does a great job with “Bosom Buddies.” Bryan Sharry plays a Russian convict. Len Mendez is convincing in both of his roles. And Robert McKnight and Michael Wells, in addition to playing multiple roles each, have amusing turns as game show hosts.

What I missed in this storyline was some crazy, wild moments. I’ll never forget the “tunnel” the ladies got sucked into a few years ago! And last Halloween, there was an incredible exorcism scene with Sophia doing gymnastics on her bed. The episodes in Volume 5 are good, but not overly hysterical. My only other complaint with the production is that I wish the pacing was more brisk, and I suspect that will pick up as the series continues.

Regardless, the house was packed and everyone had a great time at O’Connell & Company. You can sing the show’s song, volunteer to play the game of the game, and enjoy a delicious cheesecake. The Golden Girls: Golden Is the New Black is a delicious summer show (for adults only!).

BUFFALO HERD SCORING SYSTEM

FIVE BUFFALO: A show that appeals to everyone! This production is pure theatrical magic that will please everyone. No theater experience is necessary. From hilarious comedy to heartwarming drama, this show offers an unforgettable shared experience. You will laugh, be touched or amazed (depending on the genre). Grab your tickets before they are gone!

FOUR BUFFALO: Highly recommended! This production offers high-quality entertainment. It may have a solid storyline and exceptional performances. While it may not be for everyone, theatre lovers and those interested in the style, themes or genre will certainly be delighted. Gather your friends or make an appointment – ​​you won’t be disappointed that you went!

THREE BUFFALO: An unforgettable evening! This is a solid production and an enjoyable night at the theater. It’s a great choice for a night out. Go and check it out if you can!

TWO BUFFALO: Intriguing! This production may not be to everyone’s taste. However, if you are feeling adventurous and want to forge your own theatrical path, this production offers a unique experience. While it may have some minor imperfections, if the genre, themes, and style match your interests, you should definitely attend!

ONE BUFFALO: If you like theater… While this show may not be for everyone, it offers a stimulating and thought-provoking experience. Traditional theatergoers may have a hard time following it. While it will undoubtedly spark conversation, consider the genre, themes, and style before attending.

By Gail Golden