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'Little Dog' has big bite
Love or superstardom? It’s a tough call all around.
Date published: 2/12/2009
By Gail Choochan Blonde ambition runs rampant in "The Little Dog Laughed," a hilarious adult satire that pins a sweet love story against the crazy culture of show business. And it comes in the form of the fabulously talented Holly Twyford. Written by Douglas Carter Beane, “The Little Dog Laughed” is filled with juicy moments as Mitchell, an up-and-coming actor, navigates his way to stardom with the help of his super-agent, Diane. There’s just one catch: He’s a closeted homosexual. After a phone call to a male escort service, Mitchell discovers he wants more than a one-night stand with Alex. This doesn’t bode well for Diane, who’s trying to get him cast in a movie about two gay men—while having him play it straight in real life. She’s concerned it might hurt his hunk factor with the ladies. As Mitchell and Alex embark on a romance, Diane does her best to keep her client in check so they can both make it in Hollywood. This boy-meets-rent boy tale gets knocked with an added twist: turns out boy has a girlfriend. “The Little Dog Laughed” is one of those laugh-out-loud comedies, where sometimes you laugh and a second later, think, “Oh, my, did they just say that?” It’s hard not to sit back in awe as Twyford makes her way through Beane’s razor-sharp dialogue. Plus, she gets the best zingers in the house. Two-time Helen Hayes award winner Twyford gives a show-stopping performance as Diane. Want to get in so-and-so’s next picture? Diane is your gal. Do what she says and you’ll find yourself on the fast track to stardom. Her high-heeled boots are made for walking all over you. Just don’t mess up her Cobb salad. She’s very particular. Matthew Montelongo and Ivan Quintanilla play nicely off each other. It’s delightful to watch their characters, from their first awkward kiss to qualms of being in a relationship. Viewers be warned: There is one scene of male nudity, but it is brief. Rounding out the cast is the spritely Cassie Platt as the party girl Ellen, who gets a good share of ranting monologues. Mitchell’s New York City apartment remains the constant centerpiece of the production, courtesy of scenic designer Lee Savage. With its sleek stylings, it looks as if it came from the pages of a West Elm catalogue. Equally envious is the ladies’ wardrobe, provided by Kenneth Cole. Director Michael Baron directs this fast-paced comedy where characters are tested on what they’re willing to give up to get their happy little ending. Love or superstardom? It’s a tough call all around. Although the play’s ending falls a bit short and too packaged, “The Little Dog Laughed” is a little play with a big bite.
Gail Choochan:540/374-5689
Date published: 2/12/2009
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