By Laura Barfield,

For the Mirror

Centerstage Theatre’s production of “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels” is a must see!

“Dirty Rotten Scoundrels,” written by Jeffrey Lane and David Yazbek, is enough to make anyone chuckle. But at Centerstage Theatre, each cast member’s impeccable comedic timing will have you laughing out loud, and 21 musical numbers will have your toes tapping.

Con artist Lawrence Jameson, the debonair “prince,” has been working the Monte Carlo scene duping wealthy women for some time. But now a new swindler, Freddy Benson, a rough-around-the-edges schmuck, arrives on the scene threatening to scare off Lawrence’s marks. So they decide to compete for the lucrative territory. Whoever can scam Christine Colgate, the kindhearted “American Soap Queen,” out of $50,000 will win Monte Carlo and the loser must leave the country. As each charlatan schemes, their shenanigans become more outrageous and hilarious.

Each of the principal actors has range as we see multiple sides to every character. Bruce Haasl is the suave Lawrence, as Travis Tingvall is the crude Freddy. The graceful Deanna Martinez, who plays Muriel of Omaha, has a beautiful singing voice, and great chemistry with Andrew Frey, who plays Lawrence’s clever butler, Andre. Robin Mae Becar, as Jolene Oakes, shows off her singing and dancing talent. Trista Duval, as the naïve Christine Colgate, has boundless energy and a powerful voice. The rest of the ensemble is a harmonious chorus, singing and dancing while moving props to create new settings. The entire cast’s energy is impressive in this almost three-hour show.

In today’s world of limitless troubles, laughter is something we all need more of, and Centerstage Theatre’s “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels” won’t disappoint. And in this intimate theater, there isn’t a bad seat in the house.

“Dirty Rotten Scoundrels” is showing through April 24. Due to some content, this show is recommended for ages 16 and up. Tickets are available at CenterstageTheatre.com.

Laura Barfield has been published in multiple issues of Kids Imagination Train. She has a background in both acting and directing, and in early childhood education. She lives in the Greater Seattle area with her husband, two sons, and one labradoodle.

Andrew Fry and Deanna Martinez perform a scene during “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels.” Photo courtesy of Centerstage Theatre

Travis Tingvall, bottom left, and Trista Duval perform with the ensemble during “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels.”