Peter Coke’s “Breath of Spring” is a whimsical British comedy set in 1960’s England, playing at Theatre 40 until August 21. “It’s what’s called a Boulevard comedy,” says director Bruce Gray. “A story about getting to a certain age where life becomes boring.” Meaning, old age.

When maid and ex-convict Lily Thompson (Alison Blanchard) gifts her boss Beatrice (Melinda Dekay) a mink stolen from the neighbor’s, Beatrice and her four friends are forced to scheme how to replace the coat without being caught. What starts out as a one-time patch up for Lily’s bad behavior becomes a thrill for the group of five. They figure their talents shouldn’t go to waste, and having little else to do at their retired age, start planning crime sprees, running around town and stealing minks.

The characters lovingly help the play along with interesting dynamics and fun personalities. Each of them bringing something unique to their group of crime. Bridgadier Albert Rayne (Lary Ohlson) is a stern, time oriented, ex-military who plans the timing for their operations. Beatrice is the leader, coming up with many ideas. Lady Alice Miller (Katherine Henryk) is Beatrice’s high spirited, supportive, and flirtatious friend. Nanette Parry (Flora Plumb), a down-to-earth lodger and vocal coach. Lastly, there’s Hattie, another lodger who builds china cups and has an equally as delicate temperament. Hattie’s fragile nerves in times of suspense offer hilarious moments by the actress Jean Kauffman.

The play’s success is in its detailing and subtleties. A wonderfully detailed set design by Jeff G. Rack places the audience instantly into England and Beatrice’s home. Comedic moments are helped along with dramatic action music set up by Joseph Slawinski, subtle and effective for laughs. In the center of the play, a song and dance number with Alison Blanchard and Joshua Olkowski takes a moment to entertain and pay tribute to the musical, “70 girls, 70” based on “Breath of Spring.” Allowing a good progression into the exciting conclusion where Scotland yard bangs on their door, forcing a turn of events where ex-convict Lily Thompson has to come to the gang of five’s rescue.

Allison Cripe for Splash Magazines
July, 2016