By Demi Rose
The Foreigner at St. George Musical Theater in St. George, Utah is nearly sold out and no surprise why. The Foreigner, directed by David Stanley, is encouragement enough to go out and enjoy live theater again. When you see SGMT’s The Foreigner, you will find yourself invested and wonderfully entertained because the story and the marvelous performers are fantastic.
The Foreigner has to employ actors with great comedic timing, a real synergy to pull off the jokes, and be adept at physical comedy. Charlie, the Foreigner, is so shy that when he is plopped into a fishing lodge by his Army buddy, Froggie, it’s decided that Charlie can’t understand English so he doesn’t have to talk to anyone. Charlie is a magical character, and actor Aaron Naylor brings it to this production.
One of the many enchanting facts of The Foreigner is how small the cast is. With only seven characters, it becomes very easy to observe each one’s personality. One of the closest relationships to watch for is between Charlie and a charmingly “slow” Ellard (Caleb Christensen)—the duo has a robust amount of comedic timing and the strongest character developments in the show.
Another relationship that has a series of twists and turns is between Catherine (Angie Naylor) and her fiancé Reverend David (Tysen Bang). Naylor’s Catherine makes her first entrance sassy and frustrated admitting that she is pregnant by (the dastardly—spoiler alert) Reverend. Their relationship fools you into thinking the Reverend is kindness and compassion itself as the couple starts a new chapter in life with a pushed-up wedding date.
Owen (Tyson Chanticleer), Reverend David’s best friend, is also is a menace to the very charming owner of the bed and breakfast Betty (Jane Williams). The relationship is one of distaste yet tolerance. On the opposite side of the spectrum, Froggie (Jeffrey Robinson) has a pleasant relationship with Betty and is a whole reason the spin off of unexpected incidents happen in this incredibly hilarious play.
Note: There is a mention of the KKK in this play that can have some viewers concerned. It is this reviewer’s recommendation that it’s a very important message, especially in this difficult time of racial injustice and is one you’ll find satisfying in the end.
The Foreigner is technically orchestrated by Production Manager Desirée Whitehead, Stage Manager Jackie Thomassen, Costumer Ester Bergman, and Sound Design John Blasko. The work and effort that these individuals channeled into this play is apparent with how the actors and the environment are portrayed to the audience.
There isn’t much time to see St. George Musical Theater’s The Foreigner. From their website: SGMT is thrilled to announce the re-opening of the hilarious comedy THE FOREIGNER for a limited, one week only run beginning May 25th and running every night until May 30th. That’s seven performances including a 2:00 pm matinee. With the counsel and support of City officials, SGMT will be implementing a number of safety precautions. For starters, all tickets will be $20 General Admission seating with a limited capacity each performance allowing voluntary social distancing. Tickets will sell fast so order yours today by clicking on the button below! We are so excited to see you all again! If you don’t feel completely comfortable just yet — we hope we will see you at FIDDLER ON THE ROOF which will run from June 11 to July 11 — more info on that show in a few days! Thank you for your patience!
St. George Musical Theater presents The Foreigner by Larry Shue.
May 25 – 30, 7:30 PM, Saturday matinee May 30 2:00 PM
Tickets: $18 – 23
Contact: 1-866-710-8942 and for group rates 1-435-628-8755
St. George Musical Theater Facebook Page St. George Musical Theater
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