Hilarious Single Entry closes Dec 19

Wednesday, December 08, 2010

ASTON Cooke's Jamaican comedy Single Entry is into its final set of performances at the Pantry Playhouse as it closes on Sunday, December 19. The play, which opened in October has been playing to appreciative audiences. The producers describe Single Entry as an outrageously hilarious comedy, filled with rib-tickling laughter and fine acting by Dennis Titus, Sharee McDonald Russell, Nyanda Cammock and Jovan McPherson.

Cooke uses Single Entry to remind of the age-old challenges of immigrants looking for a better life in a new country. The plot revolves around two unemployed Jamaican women and their attempts to acquire visas to enter the United States. The women make several unsuccessful applications at the US embassy in Kingston and in the end are forced to come up with interesting stories to satisfy the visa officer.

Playwright Cooke writes some funny gems which are equally realistic, adding to their value. Single Entry is full of witticisms which often celebrate the wily Jamaican and her attempts to beat all the odds which are stocked against her; it celebrates the resilience of the Jamaican woman.

Although absent from the local theatre scene over the past 10 years, Dennis Titus does not miss a beat as he fits in nicely with the other performers. His experience and expert stagecraft is seen throughout as he 'lived' the role of Sheldon the schemer.

The effervescent Nyanda Cammock as Sonia lights up the stage with her contagious personality each time she appears. Sharee McDonald Russell and Jovan McPherson were efficient in the portrayal of their characters.

Director Michael Holgate makes some smart choices in his direction. The set for this production works well on the medium stage at the Pantry.