Ken Ludwig’s comedy, “Moon Over Buffalo,” directed by Frank P. Trimble, was brilliantly performed last weekend in the Standing Room Only (SRO) theatre. The play is a compilation of comedic blunders, mistaken identities and one hilarious drunken stupor.

The fast-paced action was wonderfully executed by the talented cast. George Hay, played by sophomore Collin Beck, and Charlotte Hay, played by senior Erica Livingston, are a loving yet dysfunctional couple who eat, sleep and breathe the theater. They are the stars of a traveling family theater company.

Collin Beck portrays the aging actor George Hay excellently. The highlight of his performance came when he arrived late to a critical performance drunk and disoriented. The timing and execution of his lines was brilliantly delivered. Erica Livingston gave an exquisite performance in playing the aging prima donna of the low-budget stage company. Her passion and sincerity for the part radiantly shone through her convincing facial expressions and mannerisms.

Freshman Marissa Clapp, who plays Rosalind, has a promising stage career ahead of her. The disillusioned Rosalind returns to Buffalo to announce her engagement to the nerdy and awkward Howard, played by sophomore Jonathan Scholten. Scholten captures the essence of his character and does a wonderful job of playing an ungainly weatherman who is intimidated about entering a family full of actors.

Ethel, played by senior Michelle Navarro, is the stereotypical old, deaf grandmother. Her confusion due to her deafness is humorous and fits well within the play. Jason Smith plays the handsome Paul who was once in love with Rosalind. The two find it hard to conceal their passion, and their chemistry explodes on stage.

Eileen, played by sophomore Abbey Wade, and Richard, played by junior Christopher Ryan, play minor yet vital roles in the play. Wade is excellent in capturing the weepy and flighty Eileen. For most of the play she is on and off the stage in tears because she is having George Hay’s love child. Richard is a straight-laced lawyer who is hopelessly in love with Charlotte Hay.

The set, the brainchild of Tom Macie, was wonderfully designed. The SRO theatre is extremely small, so a set designer has the troubling task of trying to create a workable set that is comfortable for the cast and crew. Macie created an authentic 1950’s green room complete with small details such as notes and memorabilia.

The stage also had to be transformed into a balcony in order for the characters to perform the play, “Private Lives.” The balcony had to be constructed in such a way that it could easily be brought on and off the stage. Scott McElheney and his crew did a wonderful job in building the set and bringing Macie’s ideas to the stage.

The costumes were absolutely amazing. Alexandra Sargent, the costume designer, had the daunting task of making authentic costumes from the 1950s as well as costumes that fit within the characters’ plays, “Cyrano de Bergerac” and “Private Lives.” Sargentis and her crew’s talent far exceeded expectations for the play.

The entire cast gave 100% to their performances. The comedic timing of each scene throughout the play is impeccable. “Moon Over Buffalo” will provide a fun evening full of laughs and excitement. Performances will begin again tonight and the final performance will be this Sunday at 2 p.m.. Call the box office at 962-3500 to reserve your tickets.