Toledo’s historic Valentine Theatre has hosted many inspiring productions. Coming Friday, February 28 through Sunday, March 16, the 85-seat Studio-A theatre will be home to production of Joe Dipietro’s vivacious 2003 musical comedy The Thing About Men.
“It is a very engaging musical concerning the inner workings of marriage and relationships,” says director James Norman. The Toledo production’s cast of five includes Derrick Jordan, Katie Zarecki, Ryan Christopher Zarecki, Jason Leupold and Lindsey Denham. The musical is based on the 1985 German screenplay “Men” by Doris Dorrie, with music by Jimmy Roberts.
The story's two acts take place during the summer months in an unspecified American city. Tom Ambrose (played by Derrick Jordan) is a top-level advertising executive who is having an affair with his co-worker Jessica (Lindsey Denham). Tom’s wife, Lucy Ambrose (Katie Zarecki), is also committing infidelity – she is sleeping with a long-haired bohemian painter named Sebastian (Ryan Christopher Zarecki). In Act One, Lucy confesses her infidelity to Tom. Out of desperation, Tom decides to spy on Sebastian. He winds up living with Sebastian after responding to his post for a roommate. Tom introduces himself to Sebastian with a fake name—Milo—and agrees to pay the full rent. This is an offer Sebastian can’t refuse. The two begin living together and discover that they have much in common; a friendship ensues.
In Act Two, Tom continues to remain incognito, managing a tough balancing act, as Lucy remains unaware that Tom and Sebastian have befriended one another. Meanwhile, Sebastian doesn’t know that his roommate is his lover’s husband. Low on cash, Sebastian decides it’s time to get a corporate job. Tom helps him put together a solid resume for a graphic artist position. As luck would have it, Sebastian winds up landing an interview at Tom’s advertising company. This is where the truth comes out, as Tom’s identity is revealed. Lucy discovers the great lengths Tom has endured in order to win her back; she is so touched that she agrees to give their marriage another try. Tom and Sebastian remain friends.
The musical represents a light-hearted and whimsical observation of the common perceptions of how men and women act when they are weaving in and out of relationships and love affairs. Those who enjoy this type of romantic comedy will certainly get a laugh out of this production. Norman is excited to present this piece: “It is very funny with great music. This is a very talented cast and I can't wait to share them with Toledo audiences.” Keep in mind, this is a show for mature audiences.
Opens on Friday, February 28, and runs through Sunday, March 16. Performances will take place on weekends only: Fridays and Saturdays beginning at 8pm and Sundays at 2pm. The Studio-A theatre at the Valentine is accessed from the Adams Street entrance. $20. The Valentine Theatre, 410 Adams St.
419-242-3490. valentinetheatre.com