Sometimes it’s refreshing to see a good old-fashioned play without the glitz and gimmickry and coarse language so prevalent today. Instead, interesting characters and a relatable storyline make theater that’s enjoyable for everyone. Such is the case with Genesius Theatre’s current production, “Bus Stop,” by William Inge. The show only runs through Sunday May 1.
The play is similar to the movie of the same name starring a young Marilyn Mnroe, but some of the characters and plot are different.
A group of people from different walks of life end up stranded in a roadside diner in Kansas due to a snowstorm and their interactions and relationships make this classic still relevant today. There’s humor sprinkled throughout, but it’s subtle and dialogue based – which I also find refreshing.
Because this show is character driven, with an ensemble-type cast, all of the actors have major parts. Director Tina Angstadt has put together a cast featuring veteran actors and talented young people who bring these characters to life.
The bus passengers include a young cowboy who has kidnapped a young singer whom he wants to marry and take back to his ranch in Montana and an older former professor with a taste for alcohol. As they interact with the locals at the diner, interesting relationships develop.
Emily Janssen, a senior at Governor Mifflin High School, turns in a delightful performance as Cherie, the kidnapped “chanteuse.” She has a flair for comedy and her rendition of “That Old Black Magic” is a highpoint of the show.
Playing Bo Decker, the young cowboy who has essentially kidnapped Cherie caveman-style, is Joseph Lovello who has been involved in productions at Fleetwood Community Theatre as well as Genesius, Lovello comes on strong in the first act as the swaggering cowboy and then gets to show his tender side later on in the show. He does both well.
Julia Bachman, a senior at Governor Mifflin High School, plays as Elma Duckworth, a naive young waitress, to perfection. Her wide-eyed innocence and idealistic optimism is spot on.
Looking out for her is Grace Hoylard, the flirtatious owner of the bus stop diner, played by Kathleen Godwin with just the right touch of spunk and a mischievous gleam in her eye. Her scenes with Randy Miller as Carl, the bus driver, are so much fun to watch. The two have a playful chemistry that add a little romance to the show.
Keeping order in town is Apollo D. Loose as Will Masters, the local sheriff. He plays the tough, but likable sheriff with just the right touch of no-nonsense attitude — someone you’d like on your side.
Adding some comedic touches as well as serious moments is Genesius veteran Daniel K. Smith as Dr. Gerald Lyman, a former professor, of questionable character with an unquenchable thirst for alcohol. His “Romeo and Juliet” scene with Bachman as Elma are memorable.
Perhaps my favorite character in the show is Virgil Blessing, the older ranch hand who has taken Bo under his wing after his parents died. Mark Christy, a newcomer to Genesius, plays Virgil with subdued finesse, making Virgil the most “real” character in the play. He quietly interacts with the other characters serving as the voice of reason. When he walked out the door at the end of the play, I really wanted to know where he was going and wished there was a sequel.
The key to the success of this show is the people — ordinary folks – who would be great neighbors and lots of fun at a barbecue. There is a familiar, nostalgic feel to it that leaves you in an upbeat mood.
Adding to the nostalgia is a beautiful set by John Bigos and Betty Girstner, with scenic art by Marjory Ewald..
“Bus Stop” continues April 29 and 30 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, May 1 at 3 p.m. at Genesius Theatre, 153 North 10th St. in Reading.
For tickets go to www.genesiusdifference.org; or call 610-373-9500. Tickets are $15 in advance and $17.50 at the door — credit card and Tix.com fees apply.
The play is rated PG-13. Genesius Theatre is handicapped accessible and there is free parking (limited spaces available) next to the theater. For more information, call the theater at 610-371-8151.
