Review: 7 Keys to Baldpate is a wacky delight

Cast photo - 7 Keys to Baldpate
Photo by Dale Sutton

7 Keys to Baldpate…

By George M. Cohan

Directed by Gianni Truzzi

Edmonds Driftwood Players

September 11 to September 27, 2015

Review by Victoria Gilleland

Step back in time to an entertaining evening of melodrama presented in the style of an early 1930’s movie. There’s an awkward charm about the way the story is told and even in how the actors deliver their lines. Reminds me of the old Thin Man movies starring Myrna Loy and William Holden that I loved to watch on TV as a kid. I’ve always felt an affinity for this bygone era.

The year is in the mid 1930s and the setting winter at Baldpate Inn. A writer has bet his rich friend that he can write a novel in 24 hours. The writer is given a key to the Inn by his friend so that he can write in seclusion and without distraction.  

 Boyd Morrison, Edwin Scheibner and Danette Meline
Photo by Dale Sutton

Of course there are distractions! One quirky stereotypical character after another appears at the Inn... besides our writer there’s a hermit, a reporter, a railroad baron, crooked politicians, a widow, a gunman and a not so honest cop. There’s even a murder mystery to be solved. The great fun of this production is that things are not always what they seem!

Drama and melodrama abound
Photo by Dale Sutton

At the start of the play the wacky inn caretakers, Elijah Quimby and The Mrs., are perfectly played by Edwin Scheibner and Danette Meline. They set the tone for the crazy action to come. And, what’s not to like about the bizarre ‘Hermit of Baldpate’ played by Rob Gaston? He galumphs around the Inn as he promotes his own brand of mayhem throughout the production. The entire cast does a stellar job portraying the eccentric characters they represent.  

Costuming by Melina Boivin is outstanding... from the raggedy clothing of the local hermit through the fur-coated blonde bombshell in her form-fitting dress.  

You’ll be thoroughly entertained when you plan a night out with Edmonds Driftwood Players at Wade James Theater. A great way to spend an evening, and enjoy local talent at a wonderful venue!

Tickets available online.