By Alexandra Sukin ’15, Contributor

Rumors, by Neil Simon, which opened Thursday night in Keeler Theater, was a hit for the CCDS thespians. Set in a Victorian home in Sneden’s Landing, New York, the jokes were endless and kept the audience happily chuckling throughout the entire show. Renowned playwright Neil Simon has created plays including Brighton Beach Memoirs and The Odd Couple. Simon is particularly respected for his comedic talents. Rumors is another excellent example of his comedic skills, alternately starring Will Bernish ’13 (Thursday and Saturday Evening) and Josh Motley ’14 (Friday and Saturday Afternoon), as Ken Gorman, and Holly Dayton ’13, as Chris Gorman. Unfortunately, Catherine Smith ’12, who was supposed to alternate shows with Dayton, was injured and unable to perform. Instead, Dayton is graciously taking on all four shows and has been doing a fantastic job. Both casts were well received by audiences.

The play opens with the panic of the Gormans when they find that the deputy Mayor of New York has shot himself in the ear in his home. Suspecting it is suicide, they try to keep it quiet from the guests who are arriving for his tenth wedding anniversary party. Unfortunately, their lies spin out of control, and eventually, all of the couples who are guests discover what has happened. The socialites then try to hide the shooting from the police and the doctor in order to protect their reputations. As the play progresses, none of the characters know the real story of what happened to the mayor, but much is assumed.  Simultaneously humorous and intriguing, this CCDS production of the show should not be missed. A notable performance by Douglas Tallmadge ’14, who plays Lenny Ganz, pulled together the play with a hilarious closing monologue, leaving the audience satisfied.

In addition to the acting skills exhibited by the cast, the set was also a highlight of the production. Featuring CCDS students’ art as part of the scenery, set designer Glenn Lindahl has outdone himself in the craftsmanship of the inside of the Mayor’s home. Mark Femia’s dedication and hard work as both director and sound operator is also evident in the success of this excellent production.