Yellow
Del Shores has always been known for his comedic plays, but after a seven year hiatus, he has made a comeback with an entirely different genre, proving his talent is definitely not one-sided as a writer or as a director. (Shores serves as director and producer as well as writer of this production.)
His newest play, Yellow showing at the Coast Playhouse in West Hollywood, takes place in Vicksburg, Mississippi. The very much in love couple, Kate (Kristen McCullough) and Bobby Westmoreland (David Cowgill) have just celebrated their anniversary. Life is serene and wonderful; their son Dayne (Luke McClure) is the high school football hero where Bobby coaches. Their daughter Gracie (Evie Louise Thompson) is a normal young teenager with desires to become a famous actress, and throws dramatic tantrums like most girls her age. Her best friend Kendall Parker (Matthew Scott Montgomery) offers support and is almost a household resident as he tries to elude his badgering religious mother, Sister Timothea Parker (Susan Leslie), who wants to put the fear of God in him. But life does not always run smoothly, and when a crisis occurs in the family, the boat is rocked and everyone's mettle is tested. McCullough is the quintessential southern beauty as Kate; Cowgill is the perfect actor to be cast as a coach as far as appearance and performance. McClure is wonderful as a high school "hunk" and is amazing in his ability to change as the play progresses. Though Thompson's fits of temper are ear-splitting and a bit nerve wracking, I guess one could expect it from a jealous sibling who is just showing her teenage culpability. And Montgomery is charming and sweet and makes one feel empathy for his character, what with the wonderful performance by Leslie as she derides him incessantly. The lovely Westmoreland home with its outdoor patio is the design of Robert Steinberg. There are moments of humor in this very well-written drama. But when you go to see it (and I recommend that you do), be certain to take your handkerchief.
Coast Playhouse
8325 Santa Monica Blvd.
West Hollywood, CA
Extended through Sept. 5, 2010
Tickets: (323) 650-8507 or online at www.yellowbydelshores.com