Review: A Catered Affair at NFCT is a Big Winner

“A Catered Affair,” being presented by the North Fork Community Theatre until November 5, is a winner. Director Bob Kaplan has his very talented cast performing at a high level with phenomenal singing to go along with amazing individual moments when the lead actors take over scenes. This show touches many bases: the dynamics of family life, the reality of planning weddings, and the many complicated levels of love. Although it takes place in New York City’s South Bronx, it could be almost anywhere where folks are scrambling day to day to get by. It definitely ignited the audience, who at times burst into applause, laughter and even awe (like when the wedding dress appeared.)

Eileen Trilli as “Aggie,” is brilliant. Both her singing and scene stealing acting prowess earned applause in the middle of scenes. Equally appreciated by the audience was Pete Harrington who played Aggie’s husband “Tom,” who had many great moments including his show stopping performance of the song, “I Stayed.” The role of their daughter, “Janey,” is skillfully portrayed by Leah Kerensky. She is charming and lovable. Ghana Haase who played, “Ralph,” Janey’s fiancée, is excellent. He is a NFCT favorite and it is easy to see why. He glows on stage and has a wonderful singing voice.

I believe the secret weapon of this show is Huck Hirsch who plays uncle “Winston.” He is super! His show stopping song, “Immediate Family,” is as good as it gets. I’d put him up for a Tony Award for that one scene alone if I could.

The rest of the cast also shined throughout the show. Gillian Schroeder, as Mrs. Halloran/ Myra, and Linda Aydinian as Pasha are terrific. Gene O'Brien as Mr. Halloran is perfect. Stephen Trant, as Sam, is a natural for the role. Cassidy Mullin is a convincing Wedding Dress Saleswoman. Eric Momente is a hoot as, The Caterer. Marianne Schmidt had the audience giggling as “Dolores,” as did Veronica Spaeth as “Alice.” Andy O’Brien is effective as The Army Sergeant.

The show consists of Music and Lyrics by John Bucchino with the book by Harvey Fierstein. “A Catered Affair,” was based on a movie written by Gore Vidal with the original teleplay by Paddy Chayefsky.

A lot behind the scenes work goes into a show like “A Catered Affair.” It starts at the top with the Director Bob Kaplan, Co-Producers Gillian Schroeder and Mary Motto Kalich, Music Director Jim Lowe, and Assistant Director Jenna Spates.

This production of “A Catered Affair,” is worth the time and effort to go see. The NFCT facility in Mattituck, with its excellent new sound system that has the actors mic’d up right on their face, adds so much to the quality of the experience. Get there before it closes on November 5th. For more information visit nfct.com