TA’s Maggie’s Getting Married – A Review

October 18, 2014 · 0 Comments

By Scott Johnston

Theatre Aurora kicks off its 57th season with Norm Foster’s comedy “Maggie’s Getting Married”.

The play is set in the kitchen of parents Cass and Tom, and takes place during a get together of family and friends being held for their daughter Maggie and her fiancé Russell, prior to their wedding. The other characters include Maggie’s much more outgoing sister Wanda, and Wanda’s boyfriend Axel.

Numerous issues quickly arise, most of which could potentially impact the upcoming nuptuals. These range from Maggie’s uncertainty about leaping into marriage too soon, to Axel’s free spirited personality not meshing with certain family members, to a surprise bit of information about Russell’s past.

What ensues is an amusing and sometimes thought-provoking examination of the relationships between married and unmarried couples, parents and their children, and sisters, amongst others.

First time director Jamie Defoe has assembled a terrific cast who truly showcase their characters’ different personalities.

Amy Williamson as Maggie and Lori Moritz as Wanda demonstrate well that sisters can be very different, but still be very close.

As parents Cass and Tom, Susan Lane and Bruce Williamson offer insight into the changes that people go through as they grow older, and the challenges and benefits of spending many years with the same person.

The sisters’ better halves are played by Harry Lavigne (Axel) and Paul Martinelli (Russell). Although he doesn’t appear until late in the first Act, Mr. Martinelli has some great reactions to, and interactions with, the rest of the cast.

As for Mr. Lavigne, he has the most fun role as the foil in one way or another for almost every other character, and always provokes the strongest reactions.

Canadian playwright Foster has a wonderful way with words and a keen insight into relationships. As one person was overheard saying at intermission at opening night, “I didn’t realize it would be that funny.”

Coupled with the top notch chemistry amongst the actors, this play is a great start to the local theatre season.

Evening performances of “Maggie’s Getting Married” continue at Theatre Aurora, 150 Henderson Drive, October 16, 17 & 18. Tickets are available through the box office at 905-727-3669.