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Published on 07/31/1995 All articles from this issue

Laughter, romance and music in old Budapest

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By Charlotte Krepismann

Special to the Town Crier

Just as there are summer movies, there are summer plays. And "She Loves Me," a TheatreWorks production at the very warm Lucie Stern Theatre, fits that description perfectly. Comedy, good acting and energetic music carry the plot that has gone around several times, most memorably as the 1940 movie "The Shop Around the Corner."

The smoothly revolving sets take us both outside and inside the 1930s perfume shop in Budapest, owned by Mr. Maraczek (always fine actor George Ward) who runs his shop with an eye toward good customer relationships and a staff that must be hard-working and loyal.

The central familiar romance of his two clerks (Jack Davis as Georg Nowack and Mandy Munnell as Amalia Balash), who act like enemies but who are secretly carrying on a warm pen pal love affair, is predictable but pleasant.

A second "romance," with outstanding performances by Meg Mackay and Clark Sterling as Ilona Ritter and Steven Kodaly, arouses more interest because of the amusing interaction between the two, the "hot blonde" and her womanizer lover. Both of these actors have fine voices, though most of the songs in the musical simply carry the plot along.

One delightful scene in a cafe, where Amalia sits in nervous suspense waiting for her unknown "Dear Friend" sweetheart, works like a play within a play. An exotic tango-dancing pair takes over the front stage, a gypsy violinist lends moody atmosphere and a klutzy busboy ends up doing a hilarious circus act. What a welcome contrast to the main plot that cannot avoid its schmaltzy and nostalgic emphasis.

True to its nature as summer theater, the song "She Loves Me" highlights the expected happy ending. The charming interior of the perfumery stands out, thanks to the skill of set designer Eric Landisman. Competent acting and some fine voices help to make the play a charming diversion.

"She Loves Me" runs through Aug. 20 at the Lucie Stern Theatre, 1305 Middlefield Road in Palo Alto. For tickets and times, call 903-6000.