Cannibals

Feeding on the shortage of roles for women over 40 in movies and on television, R.J. Colleary's play takes on the plight of four still-active, talented women who are facing the challenge of a dim future in the industry that supported them for years in a manner to which they have become accustomed, all the way to an increasingly hostile casting couch that is being usurped by a new generation of actors.

In "Cannibals," four actors see solidarity as a weapon and form up as the United State of Actresses to fight the people-eating-people town of Hollywood. Dale Dickey is splendid as no-nonsense, feisty Carole; Amy K. Murray is plumply hilarious as the emotionally starved Mo; Jackie Debatin plays the smoothly stunning Elizabeth; and Caryn Richman is tender-tough as the lovely Linda. These characters find themselves being consistently turned down for the same lackluster roles. The Cannibals are in wait, however, in the form of sleazy, proto-producer Walter (well-inhabited by Ray Abruzzo), who seems willing to watch their backs and tell their tale on film, until his beautiful sexpot wife, Donna (a glorious bitch-witchy rendition by the stunning Robin Riker), steps in for her close-up. And, of course, there's the newbie, Kimmi (Brittany Ross), who, Walter believes, would be perfect—age 16, with matching body measurements and IQ—for the role of Linda.

Each of the four women must make serious decisions about her hopes and her life when it comes down to eating or being eaten. Kudos to playwright Colleary, who has obviously thought this through, which is where this very funny, sometimes by-the-book comedy parts company with typical television comedies. And much credit to director Kathleen Rubin for all her fine perspective; the fitting set and light design by Gary Guidinger; and a superb cast that treats the play with respect.


Presented by and at the Zephyr Theatre, 7456 Melrose Ave., Hollywood. April 17–May 23. Fri.–Sat., 8 p.m.; Sun., 7 p.m. (323) 960-7745. www.plays411.com/cannibals.