Back in the day, Erma Bombeck was one of America’s most celebrated humorists, and continues to be. Going from a contributor in a local newspaper, to widely syndicated columnist, to author of numerous books, Bombeck brought her wry wisdom to the challenges of motherhood. It’s hard to say if American culture has ever been especially enlightened when it comes to the demands of maintaining a household. The chaos of getting the kids ready for school, making their lunches, cooking breakfast for everybody, cleaning house, giving a deceased guppy a proper funeral, staying vigilant with a sick child, making sure your husband’s properly dressed, to name just a few. Bombeck was a prime example of playing to one’s strengths. She was ironic, but never cynical. She was strong, but not brittle or deprecating. She was savvy but always mixed her insights with warmth and humor. She could let you know that new shirt wasn’t working for you, but make you laugh at the same time.
I must confess, I was dubious at the notion of a “one-woman show” on the life of Erma Bombeck. It would be so easy to string together her wisecracks and witticisms, without much substance to support it. Well, I couldn’t have been more wrong. Allison and Margaret Engel have crafted a rich, absorbing, often poignant theatrical piece, tracing Bombeck’s personal history from tap-dancing at the age of four, to the autumnal years of her marriage to Bill. And the Engels never push for those deeply touching moments. Though Bombeck “tempers” even the most painful episodes with sardonic (albeit grounded) observations, they get to us. I was really overcome by Bombeck’s pervasive humanity. Her gift for embracing the best aspects of just living in the world. I don’t want to give too much away, but I found myself continuously astonished by the incredibly varied and emotional experiences that enriched Bombeck’s life.
Under the meticulous, intuitive direction of Michael Serrecchia, Ellen Locy turns in a brilliant performance. She has Bombeck’s vocal inflections, demeanor, and comportment spot on, and manages the task of being the sole performer without a hitch. She’s poised, nuanced, frank and delightful to watch. I believe that if you streamed this show, without knowing a single detail of Erma Bombeck’s life, you’d still be captivated. There’s the merriment and sharp insights, of course. But there’s also the grace, the affection, the bravery, the ethical imperative, concealed by her self-deprecation.
Don’t miss this healing, heartening experience.
Erma Bombeck: At Wit’s End, streams from MainStage Irving- Las Colinas until November 21st. www.irvingtheatre.org (972) 594-6104 info@irvingtheatre.org
Get tickets at https://bit.ly/MainStageErmaBombeck