‘The Nerd’ keeps ’em laughing
By Sharon Makokian
Acorn Staff Writer

IN LOVE?--James Ward as "Willum" and Natalie Holcomb as "Tansy" star in the Conejo Players production of "The Nerd."

The Conejo Players has a wildly funny hit with its current production of "The Nerd." The farcical comedy has enough chuckles and downright belly laughs to keep the audience delighted throughout the performance.

The show centers around mild-mannered architect Willum Cubbert (wonderfully played by James Ward), whose life is turned upside down when he’s visited by a man who saved his life (but whom he had never met), Rick Steadman—the quintessential nerd, hysterically portrayed by Derek Mehn.

The nerdy visitor soon becomes an unwanted houseguest who’s impossible to remove, forcing Willum and his friends to take desperate (and funny) measures.

The small cast works very well together, with excellent comedic timing and smooth ensemble acting.

Leading actress Natalie Holcomb is likeable and believable as Tansy McGinnis, Willum’s good friend and hopeful love interest. Reed McColm is superb as the witty and sarcastic friend, Axel Hammond.

The supporting actors who make up the Waldgrave family also add color to the show. As kids tend to do, 13-year-old Dustin Snyder steals his scenes as the bratty Thor Waldrgave, son of Willum’s boss. The young but veteran actor shows great promise in both acting and physical comedy. Aaron Van Etten portrays his onstage father, Warnock "Tickie" Waldgrave, the funny, sometimes deadpan boss, very well. Gail James is also humorous as Celia Walgrave, the quirky mother who needs to break glass objects to calm herself from the nerve-wracking effects of her hyperactive son.

As a good situation comedy, "The Nerd" is continually funny and very entertaining, with some twists and turns along the way. Mehn’s nerdiness combined with the ensemble’s wacky antics should keep anyone entertained. The show is well directed by Don Pearlman.

Highly recommended, "The Nerd" plays through Sept. 15, with shows at 8 p.m. on Thursdays through Saturdays. Conejo Players Theatre is at 351 S. Moorpark Road in Thousand Oaks.

For further information or ticket reservations, call (805) 495-3715.