By Crystal Hayduk
In “Norma and Wanda,” two sisters stumble into a scandalous mess involving a former high school boyfriend, while simply trying to support each other as only family can. Preparing for a holiday church social, gathering supplies to make the family’s secret recipe for Christmas sausage, and trying to avoid a busybody friend add to the chaos.
Written by Jeff Daniels, “Norma and Wanda” made its world premiere at The Purple Rose Theatre Company (PRTC) in 2005. Following a cast reading of the classic comedy, Daniels was requested to bring it back to the stage. With only “minor tweaks” to the original play, local audiences can see it again with a new cast—or for the first time if they missed it 20 years ago. “What remains the same, at least to this playwright, is that what was funny 20 years ago, still is,” wrote Daniels in his program notes.
I recommend arriving early to settle into your seat. Take in the ambience of the comfortable Randolph home, decked out for Christmas. Scenic designer Sam Transleau and properties designer Danna Segrest created an inviting atmosphere to feel at home in, especially for anyone who loves the winter holidays. It is color-coordinated down to the floor and wall coverings, but not overdone to the extreme. With a basket of fresh, unfolded laundry hiding behind a chair and a kitchen ready for baking cookies, the home appears to be a place of ease.
The set and Mario Raymond’s cheerful lighting are a perfect backdrop for the soft, instrumental Christmas music playing. Sound designer Matthew Tibbs curates a relaxing soundscape. Sound effects throughout the performance are realistic and right on cue, as well.
Daniels wrote in his program notes that PRTC is committed to “… giving actors you’ve seen before the chance to play a range of characters, challenge themselves, risk failure.” I’ve seen four of the six “Norma and Wanda” cast members in previous PRTC plays, so I can attest that PRTC is succeeding in their commitment.
Jamie Elvey portrays Wanda with energy and gusto. Her questionable decisions lead to regrettable situations and her quest for forgiveness, all of which form the foundation for the play’s humor.
Norma is played by Kristin Shields, a veritable Christmas fanatic who is devoted to her husband, her church, and her sister—in that order. Her perfectionism and attempts to please everyone are hilarious. As a recovering perfectionist, I empathize with Norma. Her antics show us the impossibility of making everyone happy.
Kate Thomsen brings Mary Sue to life. She’s a combo of neighbor/church lady/friend. Her character adds to the show’s faith element, and believably acts a wide range of emotions throughout the show. She is lively, calm, and serious by turns; a true delight.
Henrí Franklin is a crowd favorite in his role as Paulie, who all three women knew in high school. With the nickname “Father Time,” Franklin’s comedic timing is on point. He is hilarious and surprising.
Two newcomers to the PRTC stage are Matt Bogart as Mel, Norma’s husband; and Jon Bennett, a local man. Bogart remains stoic in his role despite the chaos around him, which is most certainly a challenge on stage, especially with the laughter from the audience. Bennett’s vocalizations are not to be missed.
At the close of the show, audience members were quick to share their opinions. Frequent thoughts included amazing, really good, wow, and very emotional.
“Norma and Wanda” is a fast-paced show, packed with energy and slapstick comedy. In one play, Daniels has written love for family and church, a range of emotion, the opportunity for redemption, a fair amount of mystery, and enough twists to keep the audience wanting more.
Content advisory: This production contains adult content and may not be suitable for children under 13. There is use of a prop firearm and brief, loud sound effects that may be startling to some audience members.
“Norma and Wanda”
What: 20th anniversary production of the show that premiered at PRTC in 2005; performance runs with no intermission.
When: Now playing through Dec. 21
Where: The Purple Rose Theatre Company, 137 Park St., Chelsea
Playwright: Jeff Daniels
Director: Rhiannon Ragland
Cast: Kristin Shields, Jamie Elvey, Kate Thomsen, Henrí Franklin, Matt Bogart, and Jon Bennett
Designers: Set by Sam Transleau, properties by Danna Segrest, costumes by Marley Boone, lighting by Mario Raymond, and sound by Matthew Tibbs.
Production staff: Stage manager – Mary Toth, assisted by Caridad Guy; fight director – Christina Traister; managing director – Katie Hubbard
Tickets: Available online at The Purple Rose Theatre Company or by calling the box office at 734-433-7673.
About the Purple Rose Theatre Company:
Founded in 1991 by actor, director, playwright, musician, and Chelsea native Jeff Daniels, The Purple Rose Theatre Company is a professional, unionized theatre and creative home for local Michigan artists to produce original American plays. At the PRTC, patrons experience an intimate encounter with live theatre.
Continuing this season, The Purple Rose is leading with smart comedy: plays that allow audiences to feel good, laugh, and just maybe get a message out of it, too.
