If You’re Sick of Politician’s, DCP’s “The Outsider” is the Cure

A Blog-Review by Geary Gorup

Humor is the best medicine when we are sick of politicians. DCP Theatre provided the cure to me when I attended the opening night performance of “The Outsider” along with a small, but enthusiastic, audience. By the end of Act One, I was laughing so hard that I was crying. How often can that be said of any live performance in community theatres?

The Cast and Crew of The Outsider at DCP Theatre

The Governor and his entire staff were forced to resign in disgrace. Reluctant Lieutenant Governor Ned Newley (wonderfully brought to life by local favorite, and DCP newcomer, Jerry Brucker) is dragged kicking and whimpering into the public eye as the Governor, with only his loyal political advisor, Dave Riley (Patrick Gallagher), to guide him. Mr. Brucker brings a Charlie Brown-like perpetual doormat persona to Ned, while still demonstrating an uncanny understanding of governmental processes. Mr. Gallagher in Dave’s role serves well as the voice of reason trying to protect Ned from the insanity of politics (and the world in general) due to the incumbent publicity that suddenly whirls around Ned like a tornado when he assumes office.

Jerry Brucker as Ned Newley

Realizing they are both out of their depth, Dave’s first hire is a politically savvy pollster, Paige Caldwell (Erin Hall), who hits the ground running by trying to spin a damaging viral video which could end Governor Ned’s career.

Patrick Gallagher as Dave Riley and Erin Hall as Paige Caldwell

In walks Arthur Vance (DCP alum Sam Gugino), a nationally known powerhouse political advisor determined to transform poor Ned into a political superstar. Arthur has so embraced his cynicism of politicians and voters that he happily plots Ned’s reimaging through dishonesty and deception. Ms. Hall is picture-perfect as the all-business pollster. Mr. Gugino expertly plays Vance as a slick larger-than-life character who rolls over the less-experienced Dave in re-making Ned into someone he cannot be.

Sam Gugino as Arthur Vance (center) pictured with Erin Hall as Paige Caldwell (left) and Jerry Brucker as Ned Newley (right)

Rounding out this fine ensemble are Stephanie Weidner as a smart, sarcastic and professionally repressed political reporter being manipulated by the powers-that-be; Jeffory Beckers, as her television cameraman, who communicates mostly through his grunts, expressions and gestures;

(from left to right): Patrick Gallagher, Stephanie Weidner, Emma Beckers, Ned Newley, and Jeffory Beckers

and Emma Louise Beckers, who as the temp secretary with virtually zero office skills all but steals the show. Take my word for it – no, on second thought, don’t take my word. You have to see Ms. Beckers performance to believe me! If I described her “Lulu” to you, I would be spoiling the fun.

Kudos to Director Maddie Hayes, Producer Cathy Zeller, and Assistant Producer Janet Thompson for combining broad zany comedy with this smart script by Paul Slade Smith. The witty banter throughout delivers laugh after laugh. When the insanity is on full display during television interviews with the candidates, the stage fills with action that will make you double-over with laughter. Yet, there are still some very sweet and poignant human moments where politicians and reporters learn to listen instead of speak.

Jerry Brucker as Ned Newley and Emma Louise Beckers as Lulu

My one and only disappointment with this production was that it played to an opening night house with too many empty seats. The Outsider may not be a well-known piece to the average theater-goes, but too many of them missed the opportunity to see this fine comedy which is well worth your time and money to attend. My recommendation to you is: Don’t miss this show!

The remaining performances are Friday, June 20 at 7:30 pm; Saturday, June 21 at 2:00 pm and 7:30 pm; and Sunday, June 22, at 2:00 pm.