A VIEW FROM THE CLIFF-TALC Presents The Golden Age of Radio

The classic Abbott and Costello comedy routine “Who’s on First” and a skit from the Jack Benny Program are part of Theatre a la Carte’s (TALC’s) spring production. Two taut melodramas from the series “Suspense” are also featured.
It’s all part of a nostalgic visit to yesteryear known as “The Golden Age of Radio.” Under the skillful guidance of executive producer Pat Battestin, director John Emro and his wife, producer Susan Emro, the troupe offers a creative backstage pass to a major network production before television or computers stunted our imagination.
In “Sorry, Wrong Number,” introduced by the Man in Black (Alain Laforest), we follow the terrifying tale of bedridden Mrs. Stevenson (Marionanne Rourke). She has overheard a murder plot by some sinister voices (Nick DeCesare, John Emro/Bernard Bosio) when her telephone seems to cross connections. Marilyn Mineo and Nancy E. Keegan as the anonymous phone operators lend a powerful sense of futility to the melodrama. Rich Weyhausen and Vincent Esposito round out the cast.
In “The House in Cypress Canyon,” a horrifying flashback reveals a terrifying tragedy. Or is it an omen of events yet to come? You’ll have to decide for yourself. The cast includes the usual suspects from the previous vignette with the addition of Carl MacGowan. Special kudos must go to the sound and light crew (Cameron Hughes, Bill Haas, and Harry Gross with Ed Battestin) for bringing radio to life.
The second act begins with Jack Benny (John Emro), who decides to trade his sputtering roadster for a brand new sports car. His sweetheart, Mary Livingston (Marilyn Mineo), and his faithful valet, Rochester (Alain Laforest), have their well-founded misgivings. With a reputation as a notorious cheapskate, will the moths fly out of Benny’s wallet for this major purchase?
Finally, Bud Abbott (Vincent Esposito) and Lou Costello (John Emro/Bernard Bosio) present the timeless baseball skit, “Who’s on First?” We all know “What’s on second” and “I don’t know” plays third. Poor Lou remains forever clueless!
On opening night, the Lothians hosted a delicious cheese buffet. What a pleasant way to spend a late spring evening. However, there are just three performances remaining. The troupe is located at the Community Church of Douglaston, 39-50 Douglaston Parkway. Call (718) 631-4092 for information.
Our Queens performance artists have a few more surprises in June. As always, save me a seat on the aisle.