Simple acts of kindness make all the difference.
This is not lost on James who is earnestly willing to bend over backwards to make Miss Sophie happy on her birthday. Dinner for One is not sentimental or sappy, but demonstrates a lovely bond between valet James and elegant aristocrat Miss Sophie in her twilight years.
Directed endearingly by Weylin Symes, Greater Boston Stage Company continues Dinner for One live and in person at the newly-renovated Greater Boston Stage Company in Stoneham, Massachusetts through Sunday, November 17. This remarkable and semi-interactive production runs 70 minutes with no intermission. Each production is slightly different due to the audience’s initial participation. Click here for more information and for tickets.
Greater Boston Stage Company recently unveiled a classic theatrical makeover which includes stylish new light fixtures, carpeting and seats. The classic vintage quality and celebratory nature of Dinner for One seems a perfect match for the theatre’s new look to open Greater Boston Stage Company’s 25th season.
Red velvet streamers draped alongside crystal chandeliers is just part of Katy Monthei’s festive set design which includes matching detailed wooden furniture, a grand staircase, fireplace, nostalgic photographs and a lively phonograph in anticipation of Miss Sophie’s annual birthday dinner gathering. With Jeff Adelberg’s atmospheric and symbolic lighting and David Remedios’s piano-infused soundtrack, Dinner for One depicts the elusive passage of time through a clock without hands hanging overhead.
In tux and tails by costumer Deidre Gerrard, Paul Melendy as dapper James demonstrates his sharp comic wit through his cordial and self aware engagement with the audience considering them honored dinner guests, his meticulously detailed manner in planning Miss Sophie’s festivities, and in what ensues when best laid plans sometimes go awry. This production has some surprises and a great deal of physical humor in which Melendy handles with aplomb moving skillfully around the house. From a mumbling Jerry Lewis-style imitation to an amorous suitor to a boisterous Sir Toby, Melendy as James exacts accents and distinct mannerisms seamlessly to Miss Sophie’s delight.
In a sophisticated lace floral and taffeta gown, Debra Wise as proper Miss Sophie is as game and dazzled with every charming and rollicking gesture delivered by Melendy, but with a sneaking and relatable awareness of life’s fragility. With head high and chin cocked, Wise’s Miss Sophie is used to a certain way of doing things, but is at her best when she lets her guard down.
As funny as this production becomes, the quiet fondness between Debra Wise as Miss Sophie and Paul Melendy as James is the real enchantment of this production. More than dedication, there is a genuine admiration between them. In its simplicity and big heart, Dinner for One is a unique experience with as much humor and beauty demonstrated in what is said as what is left unsaid.
Greater Boston Stage Company continues Dinner for One live and in person at Greater Boston Stage Company in Stoneham, Massachusetts through Sunday, November 17. This remarkable and semi-interactive production runs 70 minutes with no intermission. Each production is slightly different due to the audience’s initial participation. Click here for more information and for tickets.