<By Vicki Paris Goodman
Arts & Entertainment Editor
“Jest a Second” stands on its own as a somewhat entertaining, if flawed, work of theater. But having seen its prequel “Beau Jest” at the Long Beach Playhouse last July, I think “Jest a Second” ranks as a second-hand effort on the part of playwright James Sherman.
Where “Beau Jest” was fresh, charming, warm and inventive, “Jest a Second” comes across a bit rag-tag, more a way to use a clever title than the product of a great idea.
The first disappointment was a completely different cast for this production. “Beau Jest’s” cast had such fabulous chemistry and wonderful comic Jewish stereotypes. Here we have Sarah, who lacks a little sweetness as played by Katie Dietz. She is married to Bob, given a valiant effort by actor Scott T. Finn, who is miscast as Sarah’s regular guy. And although Jo Black-Jacob and Doyle Smiens are both fine actors, the whiney Jewish mother and toe-the-line Jewish father routines failed to come across.
So at the very beginning, when a nine-plus month pregnant Sarah is just a little too mean (even for a way too pregnant woman) to her husband, and then treats her visiting brother a little too kindly, things already seem a little off.
Lou Saliba, arguably the only cast member truly suited to his role, plays Sarah’s brother Joel whose marriage has ended. Since Joel’s ex-wife plans to expose his life-long secret in court, Joel must tell his parents the truth of his sexual identity–he’s gay.
So just like Sarah comically couldn’t bring herself to break her not-so-devastating news to Mom and Dad in “Beau Jest,” Joel too wimps out big time. But in this case, Joel’s reasons for stalling seem realistic and important, which further amplifies “Jest a Second” ‘s identity crisis–is it serious drama or is it farce?
Furthermore, the play’s several references to the story line in “Beau Jest” were inserted without any explanation to benefit those who may not have seen the first play. Either this is simple carelessness on the part of the playwright, or the two plays should be presented together.
We do get a strangely voyeuristic pleasure out of the scenes in which Bob impersonates Joel’s “girlfriend” Randy. There is a very likable quality to this non-existent woman–go figure.
The real Randy, Joel’s homosexual lover, given a strong and down-to-earth portrayal by Cort Huckabone, unfortunately doesn’t enter the picture in the flesh until halfway through the second act. Things somehow seemed more grounded while he was on the stage.
Sherman did manage to come up with a pretty satisfying twist ending, which nicely ties together the loose ends. Even so, the conclusion should have packed a greater punch. It somehow fell a little flat.
Director James Rice certainly had his work cut out for him. It’s not easy making a success of a sequel that doesn’t begin to live up to its prequel. Add to the mix a cast several of whom don’t ideally fit their roles. No wonder “Jest a Second” seemed second rate.
“Jest a Second” continues at the Long Beach Playhouse Studio Theatre through March 1. General admission tickets are $22; $20 for seniors. Student tickets are $12 with valid student ID and are available for Friday and Saturday performances. Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., with Sunday matinees on March 16, 30 and April 6 at 2 p.m.
Call (562) 494-1014 for reservations and information. Tickets are also available online at www.lbph.com.
