November 24, 2010 10:00 AM
By JAMIE A. HUNT
FOR THE RECORDER

The Barn Theatre premiered on Friday, a “Variety Show,” followed by the humorous one-act play “Let Her Rip.” The two back-to-back shows represent a feat of logistical juggling for director Coco Ream; assistant director Mike Proctor; and co-producers Marty Ferguson and Wesley Cox.

The Variety show was fun and surprising, while “Let Her Rip,” written by Donna Brightwell, was an unexpectedly delightful comedy, packed with laughs. The entire evening is filled with humor, something that everyone can enjoy.

“I haven’t been to the Barn in years,” said Sally Henry, of Springville, “and I’m looking forward to the show this evening.”

”I’m glad to get involved with live theatre again,” said Bill Larson, “I haven’t been to the Barn since I saw ‘Jack in the Beanstalk,’ in the fifth grade.”

Laurie, his wife, said, “I’m looking forward to the comedy about women in their 60s, especially, since it’s very appropriate for me.”

Ralph Cargill brings his 10-year-old niece, Amber Roller, to the Barn often. He said, “I like to keep her mind interested in things besides video games and TV. I think live theatre and music sparks her imagination.”

Corey Barnes was Master of Ceremonies for the variety show, and did a superb job of introducing the various acts, starting with a fun skit called “I love my Cupcakes” performed by sisters, Olivia and Shayla Beavers, who are 7 and 8 years old. They are the daughters of Nikki Simmerman, who plays Emily in “Let Her Rip.”

Regina Lipumano played a violin solo, following the skit, and accompanied Adrienne Rowell, who sang “My Heart Will Go On” from the film “Titanic.”

The show continued with more skits, musical numbers, poetry, comedy, and a vaudeville act. Christin Peel, sang “Roller Coaster Ride,” accompanied by Morgan Miller on guitar. Glen Edwards recited humorous poetry, and George Pearce sang “The Wish” written by his brother and himself, and the “Bourgeoisie Blues.”

Cody Phaphol and Alejandra Tejada performed popular songs “Billionaire,” “Dynamite,” and “I’m not Moving.” Tejada, who accompanied on guitar, practically brought down the house with her powerful voice. The duet sang these catchy songs, and had the audience wanting more.

Terri and Natalie Tate performed their charming original song and skit “Teddy Bear,” a number written by Terri Tate, and the song “May You Stay Forever Young,” Richard Boyd, with his impressive tenor voice, sang “Fall” from the Circ du Soleil, and “The Maiden Breast” from “The Pirates of Penzance.”

Marty Ferguson’s tribute to Bill Cosby was particularly funny. Ferguson said that he has been watching Cosby since he was a child. Also, he performed as a night club dancer in “Let Her Rip.” The Crack O’ Dawn Dancers, directed by Sylvia Harrel presented two hysterical skits called “The Doctor’s Visit” and the “Little Old Lady from Pasadena.” This dance troupe has about 16 members, whose ages range from early 20s up to 85 years. The troupe has been dancing for about seven years. They were a real “treat” to watch.

“Let Her Rip” is a play about four women in their 60s, celebrating together, when one of the women has her 65th birthday. Nikki Simmerman plays the lead, as Emily, with a large cast, including such Barn favorites as Steve Ross, Terri Tate, Sharon Hall, Pam Putnam-Bourne, Wesley Cox, and Marty Ferguson.

Longtime actor, supporter, and stage manager at the Barn, Ross said, “The show is one of the best I’ve worked on in a while. The cast was great, and the variety show people were fantastic.”

Sara Lee Gershon, said, “I’m so glad I came. It brings back to me the whole idea of community theatre. I loved the combination of the Variety Show headlining the one-act play. It is unique, and an excellent way to bring in a wider view of the talent in our community. A show of this kind will also draw in an audience.”

“Let Her Rip” is such a blast,” said Nikki Simmerman, who plays Emily. “The ladies are so wonderful to work with, but all the cast are. There is a lot of talent, and my daughters have had a great experience.”

Performances will include Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m., Nov. 26, 27, Dec. 3, 4, and Sunday matinees at 2:15 p.m. Nov. 28 and Dec 5.

Sunday, Nov. 28 at 12:30 p.m. is the matinee Brunch. Reservations for the brunch are required by today. Cost is $12.

Cost for each showing is $10 for adults and $8 for seniors, $5 for students and children ages 12 and younger. Group discounts are available.

For reservations or for more information, call 310-7046 or visit www.barntheater.porterville.com.