Review: 'About Time' is a gem that fits Little Theatre perfectly

The other night, I had the opportunity to see a preview performance of "About Time," the current show at The New London Little Theatre. It was one of the more enjoyable times I have had at the theater.

"About Time," written by Tom Cole, takes place in the kitchen of a couple who have been married for many years. Over the course of the day, through breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a late-night snack we follow them as they cope with the problems of aging, illness, memories and the inevitable bickering.

Paul Schoenack plays the man, an irascible, funny old man with a quick wit and a bad knee. Ann Hermes plays the woman, a forgetful lady who chops vegetables, cares for her husband and trades barbs with him. Together, they are a warm, funny couple who lead us through hilarious and poignant conversation around the breakfast table and show us that it's never too late to make a surprising move.

The set, designed and constructed by Eric Harp and Christopher McAninch, complements the production nicely without dominating the space. I like the fact that the New London Little Theatre seats only about 150 people because every seat is close enough to the stage to see the action well and hear the dialogue clearly. The Little Theatre is a delightful little setting and "About Time" is a little gem of a show that fits it, perfectly.

Remaining show dates and times are at 7:30 p.m. today through Saturday and July 14-17, with 3 p.m. matinees this Sunday and July 18. Tickets are $12 for adults and $7 for children under 18 and can be purchased online at www.newlondonlittletheatre.com

John Mack is an attorney and Little Theatre actor from New London.