‘Second Summer’ cast will win you over

Theatre in the Valley's "Second Summer" is what some might call a typical community theater production. It has moments of charm and sweetness, and it's easy to enjoy yourself if you come ready to forgive.

Gary Richards' 2002 comedy/drama gives us Reginald (Irv Atkins), a Brooklyn widower who tries to pull his life together by moving to a Florida condo complex for senior citizens. Smart move. It seems most of the residents there are widows eager for male companionship. The script, while slight, is chock-full of interesting insights. This is a play about learning to reshape dreams, and it's difficult to not respond on some level.

Director Paula Wilkes frequently fails to take advantage of the skills of her energetic cast. The production isn't shaped properly, so that too often we get the impression of actors reciting lines, rather than characters living lives. There are numerous lengthy (and loud) blackouts that weigh down the gentle tone of the writing. And Rick Bindhamer's plain lighting and set -- arbitrary furniture pieces placed in front of black curtains -- are harsh on the eyes.

But the cast wins you over. Atkins seems genuinely befuddled by the turn his life has taken. You can't help but cheer him on.

Marilyn Atkins makes for a warm-hearted friend. When she loses her husband, you can feel the loneliness that engulfs her.

And Linda Evans Garrez as Reginald's neighbor projects such a life-affirming spirit that it's easy to understand how she could single-handedly bring the grieving widower back to life.

The production needs a more savvy director. You won't walk away from this feeling you've seen good theater. But with the right attitude, it is a good time.

Anthony Del Valle can be reached at DelValle@aol.com. You can write him c/o Las Vegas Review-Journal, P.O. Box 70, Las Vegas, NV 89125.