‘A Love Affair’ an insightful romantic comedy

Acorn Staff Writer


'I LOVED YOU THEN, I LOVE YOU NOW'--From left, Mike Monteleone as

‘I LOVED YOU THEN, I LOVE YOU NOW’–From left, Mike Monteleone as “Jimmy,” Gale Trumbeaux as “Alice,” Maggie White as “Young Alice” and Roscoe Gaines as “Young Jimmy” rehearse a scene from “A Love Affair,” written by Jerry Mayer and directed by John Barker. The play revolves around a couple in their 60s who reminisce about their 37 year marriage. As they do, they (and the audience) watch their younger selves as they progress through the years. Please call (818) 889-5209 for tickets.

There’s only one thing to say about the adult-oriented, romantic comedy, "A Love Affair," now playing at Stage Door Theatre in Agoura Hills: don’t stroll, walk or even jog, but run to the theater and see this play as soon as you can reserve a ticket.


This may sound more like hype than praise, but it’s warranted. The play is fantastic and that’s all there is to it. It’s well written, well performed and well directed. It is probably the best show that Stage Door has done in some time.


The semi-autobiographical play, written by Jerry Mayer (a former television writer for such classics as MASH, Mary Tyler Moore, and Bob Newhart), combines humor with insight about life, love and growing older. He also takes jabs at the fickle, youth-oriented television industry.


The show revolves around an older couple, Jimmy and Alice, who begin the show by packing to move from their Malibu home of 15 years for financial reasons. They’re plagued by guilt and resentment, but try to hold in their feelings.


Scenes of the older couple are seamlessly intertwined with scenes of their younger selves, as the play spans several decades and locations, going back and forth in time, between1953 to 1991.


Mike Monteleone and Gale Trumbeaux are perfect as the older Jimmy and Alice, with realistic, on-the-mark discussions, banter and arguments. They both portray their characters with grace and sensitivity. Part of the reason the they work so well together is that they’re married in real life, but their acting skills supercede their nuptials. (If the names sound familiar, it’s because they’re the founders and owners of the theater).


The actors who portray the younger Jimmy and Alice, Roscoe Gaines and Maggie White, are also wonderful. They have good chemistry together and portray their characters with appropriate youthful exuberance and naiveté.


Both sets of actors accurately capture the essence of love and marriage, and the fears and realities of growing older. The play is so realistic, it’s spooky.


It’s also very funny.


Also of note is Jill Martin, who round outs this small cast by playing six different parts, all funny, especially the deadpan lawyer. (She rotates the roles with Susan Michael). Director John Barker definitely brings out the best in all of the actors in this show.


The witty, intelligent dialogue features adult themes, and isn’t geared for children. But it is something any adult (especially married couples) could relate to and no adult should miss.


"A Love Affair" first premiered in Santa Monica in 1991 and was so successful it ran for more than a year. Many of the props and special clothing used in this production were loaned to the Stage Door from the playwright.


The play runs through May 19, with performances at 8 p.m. on Thursday nights, and 8:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. There are two Sunday matinees, at p.m. on April 22 and May 6. Ticket prices range from $10 to $12.


The Stage Door Theatre is at 28311 Agoura Road. The theater is small, so reservations are advised. For reservations or information, call (818) 889-5209.




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