Is it wise to go off the beaten path? Is it ever too late for love? Is it a good idea to take a chance on love, no matter what the odds or the outcome? Three seniors who’ve loved and lost in the past confront these questions this autumn in a city park.
Widower Ralph takes a turn from his usual walk into a dog park where he meets attractive retiree Carol. Though his deprecating her mutt at first puts her off, both dog and owner soon take to Ralph. (It would be hard not to, since no one can be more lovable than David S. Howard. It’s a marvel that Barbara Broughton as Carol can be so realistically restrained for so long.)
Being well into his 80s, Ralph wastes no time plunging into a romance and proposal. What distress that causes his sister Rose (emotionally effective Marina Re)! Her concern stems from experiencing his decline, especially one drastic incident. Estranged from her husband who left 20 years ago for a “hussy,” Rose is deeply involved in caring for Ralph and his household. Her husband, aching to grant his mistress’ dying wish to marry, is pressuring Rose to divorce. And she’s heard rumors about Carol.
Stages in the courtship are furthered by snatches of operatic areas sung beautifully by Dane Reese in appearances, mostly between scenes, as a Young Man. He might be the memory of Ralph, who’d once won an audition with the Met. The singer’s selections do reflect stages in his romance with Carol and how operatic romances mirror theirs.
Director Russell Treyz emphasizes the humor in this bittersweet comedy. He and his actors are very much in tune with their audience at FST in and outside the theater.
