There are many elements of the show “Bathroom Humor” at the Mansfield Playhouse Second Stage that go sight unseen. For example, the show takes place at a party, but you never see the party nor its hosts. But in a pleasant surprise, the show itself has sold out four nights, completely sight unseen by its audiences.
“The four shows we initially scheduled sold out, even before we started promoting anything,” said director Ryan Kiley. “It’s so exciting; personally I’ve never seen that at the Playhouse. I’m a little bit jealous I don’t get to be on stage for it.”
After 21 years of participating in local theater, Kiley makes his debut directing the raunchy comedy that takes place entirely in the bathroom. The room quickly becomes the meeting place for gossip, embarrassing moments and even an Elvis impersonator, all brought to life by a local ensemble cast.
“It’s a bunch of little vignettes – each of the characters has their own little plotlines going,” Kiley explained. “You see them interspersed as the party goes on, and some people change with liquid beverages. It’s very funny and very well written.”
Local actor Eric Gustafson plays Arthur, a mild-mannered businessman overly concerned about how he is perceived by other people. Gustafson said his character is certainly not prepared for what happens to him over the course of the show – emotionally or mentally.
“It’s funny because he’s not even close to being me,” said Gustafson. “So I’ve really been able to play around with it and have fun with it.”
Playing Arthur’s wife, Laura, is Carla Eighinger, who said her character comes to the party looking for a little more excitement in her life.
“As the night progresses she gets more and more disheveled,” said Eighinger with a laugh.
Rounding out the cast of eight is Chevy Troxell Bond as Peg, Lindsey Saltz as Babette, Larry Smith as Old Man, Beau Roberts as Stu, Anthony Nicholson as Sandy, and Jeffrey Dowdy as Big El. Kiley noted that six weeks into rehearsals, he’s still giggling at many of the punch lines. Gustafson agreed.
“It is a challenge sometimes to not laugh when you’re on stage acting with these people, because they’re just so good,” said Gustafson.
“We’ll be running a scene and Ryan (Kiley) is sitting back there crying he’s laughing so hard, which is so much fun,” added Eighinger. “It’s a question of whether or not you’re able to control yourself at any given time.”
Kiley said “Bathroom Humor” is the perfect fit for the cabaret-style of the Playhouse Second Stage, where guests can enjoy beer, soft drinks and free popcorn during the show – especially considering the show is strictly for adult audiences only.
“We have half-naked people walking around stage,” said Kiley with a laugh. “It’s a little bit more risqué than most, and it’s better fit for a cabaret style where you can sit down, have a couple drinks, loosen up a little bit without the kids and enjoy the show.”
As for the new challenge of directing, Kiley said it’s been a bit overwhelming but overall he’s enjoyed it very much.
“The cast makes the director, and I have eight strong people doing a wonderful job,” he said.
“Ryan has been spot-on,” said Eighinger. “Any time he makes an observation or suggestion it’s always exactly right. And he doesn’t micromanage the actors; he gives you the freedom to experiment with your character.”
The Feb. 20 and 21 shows of “Bathroom Humor” have already sold out, but tickets are still available for the added weekend of Feb. 27 and 28. Tickets can be purchased online at MansfieldPlayhouse.com or by calling the box office at 419-522-2883 Wednesdays through Fridays between 1 and 6 p.m.
“If you enjoy laughing and having a good time, there’s no reason you shouldn’t come to this show,” said Gustafson.
