Ghostly Comings and Goings in 'Rose's Dilemma'

Gavin Clancy (Steven Shriner) discusses with Rose (Joan Crooks) how he would finish the book as Walsh (Denis L. Latkowski) and Arlene (Brenda R. Crooks) look on.

Although the Audrey Herman’s Spotlighters Theatre has for a half century taken on with considerable success some huge challenges like Broadway musicals, its cozy in-the-round venue works much better for dramatic plays.  In making its Baltimore debut, the romantic comedy Rose’s Dilemma showcased four talented actors and an exquisitely designed set do justice to Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Neil Simon’s final work.

Though not regarded as Simon’s best play by any means, and not to be confused with such Simon-penned mega-hits as The Odd Couple, Sweet Charity and Brighton Beach Memoirs, Rose’s Dilemma opened in Los Angeles in 2003 as Rose and Walsh.  The play moved to off-Broadway later that year under the actual and current title.  

During the previews Mary Tyler Moore, cast in the title role, was reportedly sent a letter by Simon prior to opening night admonishing her for not remembering her lines.  She abruptly quit leaving the part to Patricia Hodges, Moore’s understudy.  The play closed just over two months later.

For full review, visit MD Theatre Guide.