No silverware needed
A treat for grown-ups at the BTG
by Sally Lubetich
This season, the Bellingham Theatre Guild is presenting a special indulgence for its audiences. Finger Foods, an evening of short plays written by Seattle author Nina Shengold, and directed by Sean Walbeck.
The stories are portraits of adult life. Some are wildly funny while others are poignant and personal. A treat for anyone who enjoys their entertainment a little sweet, a little savory and sprinkled with spicy dialog.
In Forty To Life, Susie (Diana Powell) faces a line up of her past loves while Paul (Alan Birdsall) relives his tortured middle school years in a funny and irreverent examination of why our past governs our future.
Lives of the Great Waitresses is a look at the aspirations of youth. Each waitress has a different take on the new girl (Jessika Maria Houston) each from a different stage in her career.
Lush Life offers a somber and poignant glimpse into the world of mental illness and homelessness. Kevin Lee is the forlorn street musician. Is he disconnected with his past or is Sarah, played by Merrilyn Jones, inventing a past life for both of them?
In Emotional Baggage, abandonment issues abound in this hilarious look at life from your luggage’s point of view. Sean Sposari is wonderful as Rollo the shabby well-worn duffel bag that has seen the rougher side of the baggage compartment but still keeps hope alive. Kudos to Josef Shaffer for the stilettos!
Finger Foods is a comical examination of the plight of hand models. Josef Shaffer and Jessika Maria Houston offer up a hilarious picture of professional jealousy and barely suppressed desires.
No Shoulder is a touching first-person look into a subject that is both personal and controversial. Diana Powell and Paige Lord are wonderful as two lost souls on a dark and lonely highway.
In Everything Must Go, Karen (Amy Landino) is having a yard sale. With the help of Leila (Noelle Angelika Kurzen) she lays out her emotional baggage for sale and is surprised to find out who is shopping for a bargain.
There are so many enjoyable moments throughout this evening of fast-paced one-acts, including the interpretative dance interludes which were splendidly choreographed by Jessika Maria Houston.
Photo credit - David Cohn
Each member of this very talented ensemble cast has their opportunity to shine and each audience member will come away with their own interpretation of this presentation, which in itself is quite a treat.
Finger Foods runs from February 18th through 28th at the Bellingham Theatre Guild, 1600 H Street in Bellingham. Call the box office at 360-733-1811 for tickets and show information. Or get your tickets at the door. Note: special show pricing is in effect. Members/Donors $5, and General Admission $8. There are no seats assigned.
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