Megan Dinneen and Steven Schwarz Photo is by Ruth David/R David Original Photography
Most dinner guests only stay for the evening, but in Chantilly High School's production of “The Man Who Came to Dinner,” Sheridan Whiteside's unexpected stay brings chaos to the Stanley household. In this wacky tale of mischief and mayhem, the characters learn that good can come from the pandemonium of life.
Written by George Kaufman and Moss Hart, “The Man Who Came to Dinner” is a three-act comedy play. It first premiered at the Music Box Theater in NYC in 1939. A film adaptation starring Monty Woolley came out in 1942. The story follows Sheridan Whiteside, a larger-than-life radio personality, when he is invited to have dinner with the wealthy Stanley family. Before Whiteside can even make it in to the house, he slips on the Stanley's front steps and injures his hip. Confined to a wheelchair, Whiteside must stay in the Stanley home longer than just one evening. However, his wheelchair does not stop him from causing disorder. With his large telephone bills, wacky house guests, and even a few loose penguins, Sheridan Whiteside turns the Stanley household upside in this wild, laugh-out-loud production.
Playing the title role of Sheridan Whiteside was Adam LeKang. LeKang hilariously delivered Whiteside's scathingly caustic jests confidently with impeccable timing. He was bound by a wheelchair for virtually the entire play, but managed to embody the outlandish and vivacious persona. LeKang created many unique and believable relationships onstage, most notably with his loyal secretary, Maggie Cutler, played by Adriana Castillo. The pair demonstrated the ups and downs of employee and employer, snapping at each other one moment and sharing a friendly giggle in the next. In addition, Castillo adorably captured Maggie's joy and sadness of her romance with newspaper man Bert Jefferson. Jefferson, played by Jack David, acted as the calm in the middle of the storm. David firmly characterized the dependable and serious, yet charming Jefferson.
Two of Whiteside's guests, Beverly and Banjo, were portrayed by Michael Rosegrant and Connor Cragg. The duo both showcased comedic skill in witty moments with Whiteside. Their bold movements and sharp vocalizations made for entertaining performances. Whiteside's nervous nurse, Miss Preen was played by Olivia Madigan. Madigan amusingly depicted many droll moments of confusion as she got caught up in the flurry of activity in the household. A hilarious cameo performance was given by Marka Doolittle, who played the senile old lady, Harriet. The audience erupted into laughter each time Doolittle crept up onstage with her bent posture and creepy grin.
A gorgeous dual level set adorned the stage. The bottom level was dry brushed and the top level featured detailed and decorated rooms, even though the audience only caught glimpses of them. Standout pieces included a grand and glittery Christmas tree and luxurious white sofas. Commendable props included the crate of penguins and the human-sized gold sarcophagus. The set transitions were almost unnoticeable, masked by good lighting and a quick crew. Subdued and warm lighting softened transitions and created a quaint ambiance for the home.
Confusion, chaos, and commotion created comedy in Chantilly High School's production of “The Man Who Came to Dinner.” The cast and crew certainly made an ordinary dinner into so much more.