The West Coast premiere of Silver Foxes, written by James Berg and Stan Zimmerman (whose credits include Golden Girls, Roseanne and Gilmore Girls), is now onstage at the Revolution Stage Company in Palm Springs.
Silver Foxes, directed by Zimmerman with assistance from Travis Creston Detwiler, is set in present-day Palm Springs and involves a trio of longtime gay friends: Chuck, Benny and Cecil. Another friend, Jimmy, is expected to arrive from Chicago with his much-younger boyfriend, Toby (aka Twink).
Chuck and Benny are organizing a birthday party for Cecil at the retirement village in Pomona at which he lives. Through staccato-delivered dialogue, we learn that Benny and Chuck had been partners at one time, but Benny is now staying at Chuck’s house as a friend. Twink arrives from Chicago alone, but is expecting to marry Jimmy very soon; meanwhile, Cecil suddenly shows up, surprising his friends.
Much of the Act 1 dialogue uses topical references to living in Palm Springs, showcasing the age gap between the friends and Twink, and setting the groundwork for what’s to come in the story regarding “family” and “friends.” We also meet several female characters who drop by for varying reasons to enrich the story.
In Act 2, the story takes a slightly more serious turn. We learn that Jimmy will not be joining the party, and Cecil has departed Pomona for a very good reason. Chuck has some big news, too. There are several relatable, poignant moments nicely incorporated into the resolution of this story which will have to be seen—and will not be spoiled by me.
Zimmerman has brought together a very talented cast. Emmy Award winner Michael Corbett is Chuck. His performance is solid and pleasing to watch—and his shift from stoic to vulnerable was especially well-done. Patrick Bristow gives Benny a wise and knowing soul. It’s easy to believe his journey through life and see how he has adapted to what has come his way.
Jon Morehouse is the flamboyant Cecil. He brings unbridled energy to the role—and just the right amount of pathos when needed. Newcomer Zachary Feuling embodies Twink effortlessly; to say he holds his own among a group of seasoned veterans is no small compliment! The always-winning Melanie Blue plays ALL the female roles convincingly with the change of a wig, costumes and acting versatility.
Joyanne Tracy has again provided a superb set design. The costumes and props, credited to Rebecca McWilliams and Imani DeLeon, wonderfully give the characters nuance as well as definition. Duke Core’s lighting and Nathan Cox’s sound worked well.
This loving Palm Springs postcard was enjoyed by a full, appreciative opening night audience. It’s an entertaining conclusion to RSC’s well-done third season.
Silver Foxes will be performed at 7 p.m., Thursday and Friday; 8 p.m., Saturday; and 2 p.m., Sunday, through Sunday, May 31, at Revolution Stage Company, at 611 S. Palm Canyon Drive, in Palm Springs. Tickets are $49. For tickets or more information, visit www.revolutionstagecompany.com.
