On Golden Pond Impeccably Delivers Laughs and Warmth

by Meghan D'Souza
Photo by Shelley Klimes

Old Creamery - Simply walking into the Old Creamery Theatre gets one revved up for the performance of On Golden Pond as the eyes of the audience fall upon the meticulously decorated living room of a log cabin. The set, designed by Tom Milligan, is incredible, complete with a fireplace, a partial stone wall, wooden stairs with a hallway, and a front patio that really captures the essence of a summer cabin. Additionally, Andrew Bosworth's props—the rugs, hat rack, wooden side tables, dozens of books, mosaic lamps, cushy chairs and even a wood pile by the fireplace—added to the rustic ambiance.

Tom Milligan and Kay Francis carry the bulk of the show gracefully and impressively as long-wed couple Norman and Ethel Thayer. They bicker and banter effortlessly, enveloping the audience into the show, allowing them to believe they truly are a couple, the set truly is their summer home. There is a fine line between pretending to be a character and truly becoming the character. This pair has mastered the art of becoming their characters, giving the audience a real treat.

The magnificent lighting, designed by Kyle Ketelsen, also helps keep the audience engaged throughout the show. Instead of having a painted background or curtains, light is used on the backdrop to convey the time of day. A soft coral color conveys daytime. A dark blue with a hint of stars conveys nighttime. This is very clever and really sets the mood for different scenes. Different lighting outside the front patio also gives a sense of time, with a bright light used as a front door light and a soft light used to cast a sunset glow upon the actors' faces.

The impeccable acting and great delivery keep the audience giggling throughout the evening. The storyline about aging and everlasting love leaves the audience with a warm heart.

On Golden Pond runs through May 27, Thursdays and Sundays at 3 and Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30, on the mainstage at the Old Creamery Theatre. Tickets are $27 ($17.50 for students).