It may be a little challenging to keep track of who’s involved with whom in Citadel’s production of The COTTAGE, but that’s half the fun. Come along for the ride of a lifetime as Citadel Theatre in Lake Forest performs THE COTTAGE, the first performance since this romantic comedy’s 2023 Broadway engagement. I guarantee you an evening filled with plenty of surprises and laughs by the minute!
THE COTTAGE was written by Glenview native and Northwestern University grad, Sandy Rustin who was looking to create a play in the style of Noel Coward, with a feminist twist. Indeed, she has. The play runs through October 13.
Straight from Broadway, this recent hit directed by Jason Alexander starring Eric McCormick (WILL AND GRACE) is a brand-new, side splitting romp. This outrageous tale of sex, betrayal, and desire is one woman’s attempt to expose her latest affair to both her husband-and to her lover’s wife. A hilarious web of secrets unravels in this ridiculously funny romantic comedy.
Without giving away too much, THE COTTAGE opens with a couple, Sylvia and Beau in their exotic escape to their cottage in the English countryside. The audience quickly discovers that the two are not married to each other, but enjoy this little fling at the cottage once a year.
Sylvia decides to let the cat out of the bag by sending telegrams to his wife and her husband. Hilarity ensues each time the doorbell rings.
Directed by Jack Hickey with precision timing, the audience watches the characters evolve, mostly Sylvia, as she questions her views on marriage and her role in society.
Beau is played by Chicago actor/comedian Philip J. Macaluso, who last appeared at Citadel in IT RUNS IN THE FAMILY. His comedic antics and facial expressions steal the show. Seductress Sylvia is played by Elizabeth Bushell, who appeared in Citadel’s holiday comedy JUNIOR CLAUS. Beau’s wife Marjorie who comes with her own surprise is played by Shannon Bachelder, while her secret lover Clarke, features Joel Ottenheimer. The cast also includes Melody Rowland as Diedre and John Dooley as Richard. The cast is excellent, but Rowland’s Diedre is over-the-top for her hysterical comedic chops.
Kudos to Jeff Award winners Eric Luchen for his elegant set design and Rachel Sypniewski for her exquisite costumes, particularly for Deidre. Citadel founders Scott and Ellen Phelps serve as Production Managers.
THE COTTAGE is the first show of Citadel’s 2024-2025 season. Other shows include: Dames At sea, I and You and A Jukebox for the Algonquin.
Citadel Theatre is located in the West Campus of the Lake Forest School District at 300 S. Waukegan Road, Lake Forest. Further information and ticketing, go to Citadel Theatre or call 847.735.8554.
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