I saw the third preview last night and had a pretty good time. Calvin really was right when he said, "I'd call it fairly typical MTC fare: light and mostly enjoyable though nothing that's really very likely to stand out in the season."
Rosemary Harris is really wonderful in the role of Fanny Cavendish. As the matriarch of the family she lands each zinger and quip with aplomb. The woman is a living legend and if for nothing else but her performance everyone should go see this play.
I have a fondness for Jan Maxwell, and she did not disappoint. Her long monologue at the end of act two was outstanding and got a nice round of applause. I will most likely make a return trip just to catch both of their performances again.
The whole thing felt like one of those silly old MGM all-star cast romps. Nothing much important, or otherwise, happened, but the dialogue was a whole lot of fun. If you're looking for a good plot, this sure isn't the play for you, but if you're looking to have an enjoyable evening out with good actors and a zippy script then give The Royal Family a try.
Marie: Don't be in such a hurry about that pretty little chippy in Frisco.
Tony: Eh, she's a no chip!