Paul Storiale’s ambitious NoHo Players are presenting their latest production, a
program of one-acts, at the Avery Schreiber Theatre in North Hollywood, and
while somewhat a mixed bag of an evening, the plusses outweigh the
minuses, leading to a generally entertaining evening of music and comedy. 

The first and shortest play (and the best) is a musical entitled The Life and
Times of Joe Jefferson Benjamin Blow.  Jonathan Kidder (the breakout star of
the evening) plays Joe Blow, whose life we follow from birth through marriage
and children and eventually death, all in less than 20 minutes.  Kidder has
what it takes to be a musical theater star: looks, a voice, and acting chops. 
He is supported by the lovely and big-voiced Tracy Mulholland, who likewise
would seem to have a bright musical theater career ahead of her.

The second one-act (The Ransom of Red Chief) is less successful, but
entertaining nonetheless, with the handsome Kidder once again center stage
opposite Chloe Patellis (another fine musical comedy performer), as parents of
a very obnoxious child (Spencer Geu).  When said child is kidnapped by a
nefariously funny Storiale, the parents realize this is precisely what they’ve
been wishing for. 

The post intermission one act is actually a series of skits about sex, introduced
by a sexy (and very ribald) Brandelynn Turner. Though the writing is uneven,
the young and very attractive performers (including Joshua Jacques and
William C. Radke—both model gorgeous, and talented to boot) do titillate
and amuse the audience with their uninhibited energy.  Storiale’s gay
seduction scene with Brit cutie Ben Jones is a highlight, and as is the gifted Mr.
Kidder’s third appearance of the eavening as…a puppeteer!  (While lying in
bed covered by a sheet, Kidder voices the loudmouthed canine pet of a West
Hollywood party boy.) 

As a last minute substitute for the eagerly awaited but sadly cancelled
Falsettos (they lost the rights, darn!), this evening of one-acts is a prelude to
greater things ahead for the NoHo Players. Presented by the NoHo Players at
the Avery Schreiber Theatre 11050 Magnolia Blvd., North Hollywood. Fri.-Sat. 8
p.m. Jun. 30-Jul. 21.  (866) 811-4111.

--Steven Stanley