Shirley Valentine

Tonight was the preview for OffoffPeachtree Theatre's "Shirley Valentine."

For all theater-goers on this list who love a good story, this is a must-see! Major props to Lynne Jenson for being one the best story-tellers around: animated, focused, delightful and absolutely radiant! Major, major props to Set Designer Jeroy Hannah who has most effectively used the space at Academy Theater to a surprising potential!

"Shirley Valentine" is playing at the Academy Theatre, 12 N. Clarendon Ave in Avondale Estates. This wonderful production opens September 8th and runs through September 23rd.

Now, some other things noticed:

1. Gina should never see theater again without Heather. It wasn't as fun.
2. There's that warm, fuzzy feeling when you walk into a theater that you've worked in before, but you walk in as a patron, and the ASM has to come and find you to turn off the lights in the dressing room. Love that.
3. House opened 15 to places. But that's ok.
4. The set was outstanding!! I mean, we are talking, impeccible!!! Jealousy abounds the practicals on that set!!! The sink actually worked! The stove actually worked! The deep fryer actually worked!!!
5. 2nd act - wanted more light on the stage, especially downstage left.
6. Pre-show music was excellent.
7. Wasn't sure if the lead was supposed to be Irish or British - accent sounded more Irish than British.
8. Shirley Valentine was adorable!
9. Costumes: earth-tones, khaki skirt with a burnt sienna top and matching button-down sweater.
10. Weird light-shifts. The set would brighten then lower then normal.
11. Shirley was an excellent story-teller!
12. Love that this woman talks to a wall in Act I and talks to a rock in Act II.
13. Noticed a lumber marking on the set in Act II

Over-all - the best show. Absolutely fabulous!