cover image Romance

Romance

George Bernard Shaw, , read by Fred Willard, Ed Begley Jr. and a full cast. . L.A. Theatre Works, $25.95 (0pp) ISBN 978-1-580-81353-2

Humor, rather than romance, abounds in this audio play performed in front of a live audience. From its “Who’s on First”–meets–Shakespeare introduction to its surprising and irrelevant ending, Romance will leave listeners laughing uproariously at the running gags, outrageous language and amusing tangents. Fred Willard as a befuddled, overmedicated and pontificating judge hosts this kangaroo court of love affairs, foreign affairs and bigotry so blatant that it would be appalling if it wasn’t so satirical. The defendant has discovered the key to peace between Israelis and Palestinians, but unless he can get court to adjourn, his plans will be wasted. The small but talented cast (including Noah Bean, Ed Begley Jr., Gordon Clapp, Steven Goldstein, Rod McLachlan and Rob Nagle) possess perfect timing and delivery. While the gross and vulgar language may scare some listeners away, its nonchalant execution dissolves its venom and infuses humor. Dirty and delicious, listeners will find this audiobook ending sooner than they will desire. (May)