Romantic comedy takes stage in Hope

Opening this weekend at WILLow LeaVes of Hope is a different kind of comedy presented by the Actors’ Studio of Hope.

“Skin Deep,” written by Jon Lonoff, offers a glimpse into the inner workings of relationships and hope that it is never too late for love.
Produced and directed by Naomi Fleetwood Pyle, “Skin Deep” offers a little sarcasm, a little emotion, some sweetness and a whole lot of laughs, Pyle says.

Unlike other comedies offered by the Actor’s Studio of Hope, this nearly two-hour long play is presented by a cast of four actors and is a softer, romantic comedy, Pyle says.

“Skin Deep” is the story of lonely-heart Maureen Mulligan, played by Connie K-Baylor, who reluctantly agrees to go on a blind date set up by her sister, Sheila Whiting, and brother-in-law Squire. Jaded by previous romances gone bad, Mulligan sets her insecurities aside and meets Joseph Spinelli, who is a bit awkward and has no filter when it comes to speaking what he feels.

As Sheila and Squire patiently wait to see whether Maureen and Joseph and hit it off, their interest is overshadowed by their own issues. Sheila has what some might describe as an addiction to plastic surgery, while Squire is experiencing the slight onset of a midlife crisis.

And then, there’s Maureen, a spinster who makes no qualms about letting everyone know she has strong Catholic faith and was originally going to become a nun, Baylor says.

Pete Law plays the role of Squire and describes him as a man who likes to flirt with all the ladies. A self-proclaimed “ladies man” back in the day, Squire probably wouldn’t act on his flirtations, but his restlessness is obvious, Law says.

Law says the most challenging part of portraying Squire is staying in character.

“The biggest challenge has been maintaining his New York accent throughout the play,” Law says. “It offers a different level of challenge, which is good.”

The “Skin Deep” cast, which also stars Jason Bowser as Joseph and Cheryl Baker as Sheila, has been rehearsing since May, and they are excited to bring the play to life on the WILLow LeaVes stage.

Baylor says that of all the leading ladies she has portrayed over the years, Maureen is the most subtle and has taught her much.

“She is kind of wise-cracky and witty, which she uses to cover up her insecurities,” Baylor says. “She has taught me that sometimes you have to take a risk. You learn that love is truly not skin deep.”

As audiences get to know the characters, Baylor hopes they see a bit of themselves in the characters as they show how different people handle the diverse relationships they’re in, Baylor says.

“It is about family and romantic relationships,” Baylor says. “There are certainly some poignant moments.”

Looking ahead to the play’s debut this weekend, and an encore performance next week, Law hopes area residents come out, enjoy the play, have a good time, and support the Actor’s Studio of Hope.

The play’s takeaway for audiences, it is twofold, Law says. The first is to give new experiences a chance, he says, and to know that it is never too late to look for romance.

“It turns out sweet,” Pyle says. “There really is someone for everybody.”