`Love, Sex and the IRS' recalls old Hollywood slapstick
Love, Sex and the IRS , with cleverly crafted coincidences and verbal exchanges, is reminiscent of old Hollywood comedies full of mistaken identities and havoc. The plot deals with two male roommates, Leslie Arthur (Rhea Sumter) and Jon Tracht-man (Josh Warren) and the excitement they create when they falsify their IRS forms. Claiming that Leslie is a woman and that they are married, Jon saves money -- until the IRS doubts the relationship's validity.
Leslie has also been secretly dating Jon's fiancée, Kate (Sari Miettinen). Jon, Leslie and Kate conspire to fool the IRS auditor; the plot snowballs from there.
The play's success comes in part from the absurd situations and witty lines Van Zandt and Milmore have created. Directors Marco Rimassa and Tom Bisciglia have done a good job with the script, utilizing the actors' individual talents. They do not allow strong characters to monopolize the dialogue.
Sumter is realistic as Leslie, if he overplays his hysteria a bit. His rapid delivery doesn't hinder the play; it does prevent the audience from savoring some of the humorous lines.
Warren and Miettenen are well-suited to their roles. Elizabeth Paris, as Jon's mother, is great at playing an older woman.
Cast standouts include Mason Colby as Floyd Spinner, the IRS agent, and Iestyn Lewis as the landlord. Colby changes from sober and business-like to drunk and lascivious; Lewis' delivery had the audience laughing from each entrance to each exit.
Love, Sex and the IRS isn't for those who prefer subtle humor. But if you enjoy broad comedy and men in dresses, this is the play for you. It will be showing today, tomorrow and Nov. 16-18 at 8 p.m. in the Wiess Commons. Admission: $2 for Wiess members, $3 for other Rice students and $5 otherwise.
This item appeared in the Arts & Entertainment section of the November 10, 1995 issue.
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