Play is a laugh-out-loud romp

It’s only three days before Christmas and the staff of a London hospital is getting ready for its annual holiday show. Spirits are high in the doctors’ lounge and the holiday spirit is in everybody’s heart.

Well, almost everybody.

Dr. David Mortimer is a man of confidence. The responsibility of delivering a lecture that will provide the hospital with necessary finances rests on his shoulders. He doesn’t have time for the annual show; he needs to practice. If only he could without interruption.

Everything seems to be going wrong for the doctor at the most inconvenient time. His attention is demanded by his boss, staff, even his wife. Not to mention his former nurse and lover, Ms. Tate, who appeared from nowhere after 18 years “and nine months” to introduce him to his unknown daughter.

“It Runs In the Family” is a witty comedy sure to have you laughing out loud. It has the “I Love Lucy” domino effect of hidden secrets adding up while Dr. Mortimer is desperately trying to hide it all. This unfortunate façade has him running in circles, all the while trying to rehearse his speech.

As Steven J. Impson’s first lead role, I’d say he made a brilliant Dr. Mortimer. His depiction of the doctor’s undaunted personality carried the audience away in a world of childish humor as his character tried boldly to hide his mistakes from his co-workers and his loving wife.

I must also acknowledge and appreciate Heather Berger for her performance as the curious and thoughtful Mrs. Rosemary Mortimer. I would never have guessed that this was her first Valley Performing Arts performance.

From the moment I received the tickets for VPA my expectations were high. The last show I saw performed in the theatre was “One Flew over the Cuckoo’s Nest,” a more serious drama. The contrast between the two plays is undeniable. I believe that it takes true talent to project such different atmospheres as desired.

The VPA cast and crew, volunteers from our very own Valley, come together as thespians, backstage helpers, artists and directors to display their love for entertainment. They help us find another small piece of ourselves one play at a time. This performance was no exception. I was not let down.

Ahriel Porter is a junior at Mat-Su Community College.