'Dirty Rotten Scoundrels' opens at Broadway Palm

COURTESY PHOTO Gary Kimble in "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels" at Broadway Palm Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre presents the Broadway hit musical comedy "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels," playing Oct. 1 through Nov. 14. The book is by Jeffrey Lane, with music and lyrics by David Yazbek. The musical is based on the 1988 film of the same title, which starred Michael Caine and Steve Martin.

"Dirty Rotten Scoundrels" is the story of two con men living on the French Riviera with dreams of making it big by stealing women's fortunes. The men have different approaches to accomplish the same goal. One uses the story of an ill grandmother to get women to feel sorry for him; the other woos women with his sweet-talking ways and has them throwing their money to him. The two men meet on the train and decide to work together, but find out that the small French town they live in isn't big enough for two scammers. They agree and set up a challenge: the first person to successfully steal $50,000 gets to stay in town and the loser will leave. A hilarious "battle of the cons" begins with a few twists and turns along the way, which keeps the audience guessing who wins in the end.

The cultivated and suave conman Lawrence Jameson is played by Gary Kimble. He recently played Bill Wilson in "Bill W. and Dr. Bob," and Sheriff Ed Earl Dodd in "The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas" at Broadway Palm.

The character of Freddy Benson, the small-time thief, is portrayed by Zac Mordechai, who is making his debut at the theater.

"Dirty Rotten Scoundrels" is directed by Paul Bernier, the artistic director for The Off Broadway Palm Theatre. Amy Marie McCleary is providing choreography. Set design is by Evan Adamson, musical direction is by Loren Strickland and costumes are by John White. Lighting design is by Russell A. Thompson.

Performances are Wednesday through Sunday evenings with selected matinees. For evening shows, dinner begins at 5:30 and the show starts at 7:30 p.m.; matinee shows begin at 11:45 for lunch and the performance starts at 1:15 p.m. Sunday twilight shows begin at 5:30 p.m. and the show starts at 7 p.m. Ticket prices range from $27 to $53 with group discounts available for parties of 20 or more. Tickets are now on sale and can be reserved by calling 278-4422, by visiting www. BroadwayPalm.com, or by stopping by the box office at 1380 Colonial Blvd. in Fort Myers.