New Vision's mystery comedy a winner

By: RUTH LEPPER - Staff Writer | Wednesday, January 30, 2008 1:54 PM PST ∞

It's no mystery that New Vision Theatre Company has another top-notch show being staged at the Sunshine Brooks Theatre in Oceanside. The company, formed a few years ago by Yolanda and John Kalb, has earned a reputation for quality productions with very talented actors.

But there is a mystery going on in its current production, "Death & Taxes," written by Pat Cook. It's a not-so-typical murder mystery, with the audience having a hand in solving the case. However, a full house on opening night revealed only two correct accusations.

The plot opens with a town council meeting. The mayor has deemed it an inquisition to determine who murdered a stranger in town. Everyone in the nine-member cast comes across as truly realistic townsfolk, from the red-necked Carl and his snarky wife, to the temperamental editor of the weekly newspaper, to the not-so-bright sheriff and the domineering mayor.

Lois Sprays wields a mean gavel as the mayor. Aaron Derwin could step right into any small-town newspaper office and take over. It's scary to ponder where Ryan Lee perfected the role of the sheriff.

Octogenarian Toni Perrine is a pure delight as Cora Sedgwick, the snoopy neighbor who discovered the body. Veteran performer Fred Hanrahan adds the right comedic touch to his character, Doc Bishop.

Sharon Kloosterman couldn't be a better choice for the high school drama teacher. She knows how to take charge of the situation at hand. Tiffany Fuller brings the right amount of disarray to the role of the mayor's clerk. Chanel Hennessey, as Carl's wife, Mattie, makes the audience believe she's not acting.

But if there is a star shining in this ensemble, it is Rick Lee as Carl Johanson. He could have stepped right out of Mayberry RFD or any backwoods community in the U.S.A. He is giving a brilliant performance as this kooky character and seems to be having a grand old time breathing life into Carl.

Hats off to the Kalbs for producing and directing a quality show. It's well worth the drive to Oceanside from anywhere in the county.

"Death & Taxes"

When: 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, through Feb. 9; plus 12:30 p.m. Sunday; 2 p.m. Feb. 10

Where: New Vision Theatre at the Sunshine Brooks Theatre, 217 N. Coast Highway, Oceanside

Tickets: $17, general; $14, seniors; $10, students and military

Info: (760) 529-9140

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