From Disgust to Delight: Finding Love in Ken Ludwig's Be My Baby

A review by Thomas W. Rush

Photo credit: Colleen Algeo Photography

Watching Be My Baby at DCP Theatre was an engaging and heartfelt theatrical experience. From the opening moments, the production establishes a welcoming atmosphere that immediately draws the audience into Ken Ludwig’s charming story. The frequent scene changes flow smoothly, each helping to establish the mood of the moment. The production’s prop-heavy yet simple design adds realism and visual richness, grounding each setting and supporting the pace of the play as the story moves fluidly from one scene to the next.

At its heart, Be My Baby is a witty romantic comedy about two strong-willed adults unexpectedly brought together by family circumstances. What begins as an uneasy partnership—filled with stubborn personalities and sharp remarks—quickly turns into a humorous journey of reluctant teamwork. As they attempt to navigate the whirlwind romance of their younger relatives, the pair must contend with clashing viewpoints, awkward situations, and the realization that sometimes the people we least expect to connect with can change our perspective the most.

Photo credit: Colleen Algeo Photography

At the center of the production, Linda Friday as Maude Kinch delivers a magnificent and commanding performance, bringing wit, presence, and emotional depth to the role. Her portrayal anchors the production and provides many of the evening’s most memorable moments.

Opposite her, Wesley Hrabina as John Campbell offers an endearing and warmly fatherly portrayal, grounded in sincerity and gentle humor. The chemistry between Friday and Hrabina becomes one of the most rewarding elements of the production. Their relationship evolves beautifully throughout the play—beginning with mutual irritation and even moments of outright disgust, gradually softening into reluctant companionship, then friendship, and ultimately something deeper. The progression feels authentic and touching, leaving the audience with a hopeful reminder that love and companionship can blossom at any stage of life.

Photo credit: Colleen Algeo Photography

Genee Foulkes as Gloria Nance delivers a determined and resolute performance, capturing the character’s steadfast nature while revealing moments of vulnerability that add depth to her role.

Brad Briddes as Christy McCall offers a steady and understated performance, providing a calm and grounded presence that supports the ensemble and helps maintain the play’s natural rhythm.

The production is further enriched by the ensemble work. Jan Thompson, portraying multiple characters throughout the evening, brings a richly expressive and highly versatile performance. Each character is clearly defined through shifts in voice, posture, and energy, allowing the audience to easily follow the transitions. Her ability to move between roles with clarity and theatrical expression adds both humor and texture to the production.

Similarly, David Montanye delivers a chameleon-like performance, skillfully transforming between several characters with distinct personalities and physicality. His quick shifts in mannerisms, pacing, and presence give each role its own identity, creating delightful moments of surprise and adding dynamic movement to the storytelling.

Under the direction of Michael Romito, the production moves with a comfortable rhythm that allows Ludwig’s humor and heartfelt storytelling to shine. The creative team—including Elda Kulp (Assistant Director and Props), Cathy Zeller (Costume Designer), Geoff Yaroschak (Lighting and Sound Designer), Kent Gerhart (Scenic Designer), Debby Dennis (Stage Manager) and producer Deb Takes—help create a cohesive theatrical environment that supports the narrative beautifully.

Overall, Be My Baby at DCP Theatre is a charming and uplifting production that celebrates connection, second chances, and the unexpected ways life can surprise us. It is the kind of performance that leaves you walking out of the theatre with a genuine smile, glad you chose to go out for the evening and enjoy the allure of live theatre.

Remaining performances at DCP Theatre are March 20-21,2026 at 7:30 PM and March 21-22, 2026 at 2 PM.

Special thanks to the sponsor of this production, Le'Vi Nail and Lash.