PULL THE “RIPCORD” FOR COMEDY AT SEVEN ANGELS

PEGGY COSGROVE AND MARINA RE IN "RIPCORD"
PHOTO BY PAUL ROTH

The Bristol Place Senior Living Facility is in grave danger of being lifted off its foundation. This situation is not because of a hurricane or other natural disaster but rather is due to the new roommate that has arrived at Abby’s doorstep. Abby likes to be in control of her surroundings and a talkative and bubbly addition to her space is not acceptable or tolerated. In the past, she has been able to encourage the temporary invaders to vacate the premises, but the new gal Marilyn refuses to budge. Talk about “The Odd Couple.”

Settle back at the Seven Angels Theatre in Waterbury for a thoroughly delightful visit with Abby and Marilyn as David Lindsey-Abaire’s comedy “Ripcord” pulls out all the punches until Sunday, December 2. 

People of a certain age can be forgiven for being set in their ways, but Abby carries that philosophy of life to extremes. Marina Re’s Abby is as cantankerous as Scrooge and proud of it. Like a three year old in the sandbox, she has declared her room off limits to any one else. She is not above bribing the genial aide who deliveries glad tidings and medication, Jovan Davis’ Jonny, to help her get her way.

Peggy Cosgrove’s Marilyn is sunshine herself, but she is not about to move her belongings to another floor. She likes the view from the window and she is ready and willing to tolerate Abby’s inhospitable ways. The two are about to wage the fight of the century when they decide on a bet: if Abby can make Marilyn angry, she wins, but if Marilyn can make Abby show fear she will be the victor. Abby will either gain her room back or Marilyn will move into the favored bed by the window.

The pranks they each stage grow wilder and soon cut close to home. Abby involves Marilyn’s daughter Colleen, a caring Julia Register, and her husband Derek, an accommodating Ben Paul Williams. In turn, Marilyn digs into Abby’s past and produces an unwelcome Benjamin, an asking for forgiveness Ed Rosini. The personal attacks escalate to life threatening stages. Brendan Burke directs this look at the escapades of senior citizens with a hilarious eye.

For tickets ($42-55), call Seven Angels Theatre, 1 Plank Road, Waterbury at 203-757-4676 or online at sevenangelstheatre.org. Performances are Thursday at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Thanksgiving week shows are added for Tuesday at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. but not on Thanksgiving Day. Watch for a return of “Christmas Eve at Earlene’s Diner” from December 7-19 and a holiday visit with The Edwards Twins on Thursday, December 20 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Come root for these two women at a crossroads in life as they battle for their rights and almost kill themselves and each other in the process.