In Edward Ravenscroft's Restoration comedy (adapted and directed by Richard Tatum), sex, infidelity and outrageous calamities are given free reign. The plot spins around three married couples. Aldermans Doodle, Wiseacres and Dashwell (Quincy Miller, Herb Mendelsohn, Charles Pacello) are first seen having a discourse over whether a wife who is virtuous, foolish or witty would be more faithful. In short order, the spouses of these clueless gentlemen, the ditzy, teenaged Peggy (Jessica Mills), “witty” Arabella (Julie Granata) and the “godly” Eugenia (Catherine Cronin) provide the answer with the help of the honey tongued Ned Ramble (a fine Darin Toonder), who eventually tries to sate the lusty desires of all three, while avoiding discovery. In the process, Ramble’s manic mishaps and outlandish entrances and exits provide hilarious moments. Fanning the comic flames are the amorous pursuits of Messrs. Frank (Zack Foulkes) and Loveday (Matt Saxe). This bawdy romp runs almost three hours but never wears thin. The cast turn in excellent performances, and Tatum keeps the physical comedy and shtick at a perfectly modulated level. Tera Struck’s period costumes are impressive.
Thursdays-Saturdays, 8 p.m.; Sundays, 7 p.m. Starts: March 1. Continues through April 12, 2008

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