TA’s Sexy Laundry: A review

February 24, 2016 · 0 Comments

By Scott Johnston

Twenty-five years of marriage often makes couples really comfortable in their relationships.

But is just being comfortable enough? Is having a well-established routine just a little bit, well, routine? Does a little spice need to be re-introduced?

This is the theme of Theatre Aurora’s current production of “Sexy Laundry.”

The play, by Vancouver playwright Michele Riml, tells the story of married couple Henry and Alice. With three kids, health issues, stable home ownership, and many other familiar life experiences under their belts, things have become a bit predictable.

To combat this, Alice has rented a hotel room, where with the help of a well-worn library copy of the book “Sex for Dummies”, she hopes to encourage the romantic imagination of her less than enthusiastic husband.

The results are not always what she anticipated.

With only two characters on stage, there is a lot of pressure on actors Mark Rival and Anna Pelc-Draper. Fortunately, they are both excellent performers and have terrific chemistry, the latter being helped by this being their seventh play together.

It’s easy to believe that they are a long-married couple, who have been through a lot together.

The story provides some verbal and physical humour, but it’s the exploration of the couple’s relationship that stands out. Audience members will definitely find something in the play to think about afterwards.

Evening performances of “Sexy Laundry” continue at Theatre Aurora, 150 Henderson Drive, February 25, 26, and 27, and March 3, 4 and 5, with a matinee February 28. Tickets are available through the box office at 905-727-3669.