110 in the Shade Theatre Review

Kevin McAllister & Tracy Lynn Olivera star in 110 in the Shade (Photo: Carol Rosegg)

Let the Rain Come

"If there's anything that scares a man, it's a serious talking woman." Cue the return of Lizzie (Tracy Lynn Olivera) in Ford Theatre's enthralling production of 110 in the Shade (now playing, through May 14th.) Her timing may not be great (1950's Texas... during a severe drought) but there's no holding back this Texan belle, despite her (all-male) family's efforts to marry her off... just as soon as she makes them dinner. Lucky for her, she has options (Kevin McAllister's File & Ben Crawford's Starbuck.) The former's a divorced, soft-spoken Sheriff: The latter, a loud rainmaker... with no shortage of bravado. Will Lizzie choose the right man? Should she even have to?

202 Words or Less

N. Richard Nash's story is a tad dated/sexist; but director Marcia Milgrom Dodge gives Lizzie plenty of room to operate and shine. Olivera has a real sweetness to her, which plays well against Crawford's brashness and McAllister's booming, oh-so-impressive voice. The musical numbers are good enough, as is Michael Schweikardt’s barebones set design. There aren't many surprises, and the pace is relatively deliberate/borderline slow; but the show's three main characters make it very watchable (and a joy to listen to.)

Grade: B-

110 in the Shade runs almost 2½ hours with a 15-minute intermission, now through May 14 at Ford's Theatre (511 10th Street, NW.) Tickets cost $22-$71, and are available for purchase at fords.org or by calling 1(800) 982-2787.