The lights come up onto a busy and highly decorated stage. Sounds of a typewriter emerge from the silence as the first character is introduced. From December 8th- 10th, the 20th century comedic play You Can’t Take it With You was presented by the New Players Company. It was brought to life by Ridgewood High School students involved with the company and generated many laughs from the audience. The director, Rosie Mccooe, did a phenomenal job in leading the talented group in the show. It was an impressive comedy which was thoroughly enjoyed by the audience
You Can’t Take it With You is a show about a chaotic family, the Sycamores. The Sycamores each have extremely unique characteristics, such as a fire cracker making father, and a daughter who never ceases dancing. Among all of the oddballs in the family is Alice Sycamore. Alice is one of the daughters of the family and seemingly the only “normal” one. Alice has attracted her boss’s son. This couple only has one thing standing in the way of their engagement. The boss’s son, Tony Kirby, has his own family issues, but his are quite the opposite of Alice’s. Tony’s family is proper and “normal”, or so originally thought. Tony and Alice must introduce their families, and are met with the challenge of making them see eye to eye. The Kirby’s are exposed to the true frenzied nature of the Sycamores, leading the two families into a whirlwind of events.
Ridgewood High School’s production was not only entertaining and comical, but also heartwarming. The emotions shared between the characters, and the relationships developed throughout appeared authentic and real. The actors conveyed the various emotions and traits associated with their respective characters exceptionally, and anyone who saw the play was impressed. The casting was done impeccably, as all actors portrayed the various characteristics of their role.
In addition to the casting, the elaborate set gave the show character, and added to the effect of hecticness within the play. With seemingly hundreds of posters and paintings, one’s eyes were constantly looking around. A xylophone, busy desk, printing press, and pet snake were only a few of the many structures on the stage. Each had its own purpose, and quirky family member that it belonged to.
The ending of the show was comprised of snapshots of the characters in a variety of positions. The clever frozen positions added a final amusing component. It was a creative way to end a unique show, and appreciated by all who viewed it.
Other shows included in this year’s New Players program are Book of Days (October 27th-29th) and the upcoming New Players in Concert (January 12th – 15th), Sweeney Todd (March 16th-19th), and Hamlet (May 11th – May 13th). Make sure to mark these dates on your calendar. Based on the entertaining quality and fun atmosphere of this play, I encourage you to consider viewing any of these productions and can guarantee you will not be disappointed!
Avery Fogg
staff writer