The Seven Year Itch - May 2009

Opening at Cumberland's New Embassy Theatre on May 8 and running for nine performances through three weekends, The Seven Year Itch is a hilarious and touching 1950s comedy that examines the wonders and worries that come along with a certain level of complacency in a marriage.  Mark Ashby, the host of this podcast, portrays Richard Sherman, a husband caught between his love for his wife of seven years, Helen (played by Marta Fiscus, at right) and his desire for a little extramarital activity with the new upstairs neighbor, only identified as "the Girl" (played by Kedra Gowans, at left).

Richard weaves in and out of reality and his own memories and fantasies as he attempts to come to grips with his conflicting feelings as a husband and father whose wife and son have taken a summer trip to the beach and as a ladies' man who still wishes to see himself, at age 38, as still having what it takes to attract women of all types (like his secretary, a friend of Helen's, or a casual acquaintance).  In the meantime, a pompous psychiatrist/author helps Richard sort out his emotions, and a male friend of the family tries to move in on Helen, prompting all sorts of jealousy on Richard's part.  The play is somewhat different from the famous Marilyn Monroe movie of the same name, but trust us when we tell you that you'll laugh even harder at this version!

Show dates are May 8-10, 15-17, and 22-24, with Friday and Saturday shows at 7:30 and Sunday matinees at 2:30.  A special brunch by Sara Bella Catering is also available on Sundays at 1 pm for an additional charge.  Regular ticket prices are $18 adults, $16 students and seniors, but if you listen during this podcast for "The Phrase That Pays," mention it at the ticket window or when calling [phone] for reservations, and your show tickets will be half-price.

Click the POD link above and please wait a few minutes for the file to download.

Running time: about 21 minutes.