Finding backers to produce a play by an unknown playwright is a tough assignment. Professor Terence O’Keefe has exhausted all the conventional sources to finance his murder mystery. In desperation he remembers a student, Angie Graziano, of considerable means and seeks her out as a possible angel for his play in “Breaking Legs,” a comedy, now showing as an Ovation Series production at the Ocala Civic Theatre.
It just so happens that Angie (Angie Petty) has a crush on the older professor, so she is anxious to help. Angie’s father Lou (John LaPaille) owns a family Italian Restaurant in New Jersey which she manages. O’Keefe (Kevin J. Molduene) discovers that the ‘family’ has Mafioso roots and the forthcoming financial ‘cash’ has ties to the mob giving him second thoughts. But it is too late.
All the action takes place in the Graziano restaurant where Angie doubles as the waitress. The linguini and pasta are continuously consumed in an authentic looking set.
Unfortunately the script is a one joke book, but that doesn’t stop veteran performer Chip Morris as Mike, the local God Father, from making the show sparkle. He aces all his lines and expressions even though Mike ‘is unable to smile when he laughs due to an unfortunate accident.’
LaPaille does a very smooth job establishing a believable Italian relationship with his unmarried daughter, played to the hilt by Petty. Not only does Petty have the dream figure for the role, but also her erotic reaction to a foot massage given to her by the professor makes you squirm in your seat.
Molduene has some homework to do to capture the essence of a sheltered college professor. Maybe a jacket with leather elbow patches or a sweater would help.
Despite the plethora of stereotypes, “Breaking Legs” is full of laughs and well worth the ticket price at OCT. The show runs through October 19. For ticket prices, dates, times, and directions, visit their Web Site at www.ocalacivictheatre.com.
Villager Jack Petro reviews local theater for Villages-News.com