'Lend Me A Tenor' hits Off Broadway Palm

COURTESY PHOTO Jim Brigman, left, and Bart Herman star in the Off Broadway Palm Theatre production of "Lend Me a Tenor." The show runs through May 3. The Off Broadway Palm Theatre presents the award-winning comedy "Lend Me a Tenor" playing through May 3. This clever and wildly entertaining farce mixes mistaken identities, competing opera stars and a symphony of slamming doors.

"Lend Me a Tenor" is set in 1934 at the Cleveland Grand Opera on its biggest night in history. World famous tenor, Tito Merelli, known to his fans as "Il Stupendo" is scheduled to sing the lead in "Otello," produced as a gala fundraiser that is set to raise $50,000 for the company. Before the star even leaves his hotel room, things begin to unravel. Chaos reigns onstage and off when the world famous tenor passes out cold from too many tranquilizers and a "Dear John" letter is mistaken for a suicide note. Tito's appearance onstage seems unlikely, but for the General Manager of the Cleveland Grand Opera the show must go on, even if it means sending Tito's assistant onstage as his replacement.

"Lend Me a Tenor" cast members include Paul Bernier, Bart Herman, Elizabeth Tanner, Jonathan Goodman, Patricia Wilcoxson, Jennie Carosiello and making their Off Broadway Palm debut are Rachael Endrizzi and Jim Brigman. The show is directed by Aaron Lake.

The Off Broadway Palm Theatre is an intimate 90-seat general admission theatre, located in the main lobby of Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre. With no seat further than 25 feet away from the stage, you become part of the show.

Ticket prices range from $23-$44. Performances are Tuesday through Sunday evenings with selected matinees. Call (239) 278-4422 for information and reservations, visit the box office at 1380 Colonial Boulevard in Fort Myers, or order online at www. BroadwayPalm.com

If you go

>>What: "Lend Me a Tenor"

>>When: Through May 3

>>Where: Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre, 1380 Colonial Boulevard in Fort Myers

>>Cost: $23 to $44

>>Info: Call (239) 278-4422 or www.BroadwayPalm.com