A 1950s sitcom-style play about the earliest onset of the gay rights movement, “Perfect Arrangement” is beautiful, funny, and sadly a bit apropos for today’s political debacle.

~Review and Photos by Dana Nöllsch~

The Story of “Perfect Arrangement”

“Perfect Arrangement” takes place in Georgetown, Washington, in 1950, when the Cold War was at its height. Georgetown is where government watchdogs were terrified of the threat of being infiltrated by communists. But the government officials were not only afraid of communists but also of the perceived menace of anything different than what was considered normal society, sending waves of suspicion through their core. This is when the lavender scare joined the red scare.

“Perfect Arrangement” follows the plight of two couples, Bob and Millie Martindale and Jimmy and Norma Baxter, who, on the outside, live a very normal life but secretly live a far more discreet and, at that time, unacceptable lifestyle. Bob and Millie, Jimmy and Norma share a duplex with a very special closet that is both a metaphor and a way to conceal their double lives.

Bob works for the government, rooting out communists, and, with the help of his secretary, Norma, has been mandated with rooting out degenerates, including homosexuals as well. This mandate hits home to the four of them as Bob is with Jimmy, and Millie is with Norma when they are behind closed doors.

The majority of “Perfect Arrangement” is the hilarious, almost slapstick attempts to conceal the truth of these two couples’ secret lives. Yet, there is also the heartbreak of the reality that none of them can be free to show who they really are.

Beautifully written “Perfect Arrangement” blends the nostalgia of the 1950s with the frustration of a fearful government, from the eyes of a modern writer.

Here are some photos to give you a taste of “Perfect Arrangement”

The Performances

Watching the cast perform and bring these dynamic characters to life was a pleasure. The cast shows the characters’ vulnerability in a way that the audience can relate to, no matter who is watching the performances.
It is truly an ensemble cast that Shea King masterfully directs. You can clearly see and feel the cast and crew’s passion for telling this story.

The Set

The set is glowing with a mid-century modern feeling, from the furniture to the paint and the style of the 50s that you can utterly feel and taste. This, blended with the radiant costuming, brings the audience straight into the mid-century era.

The Bottom Line

Don’t Miss “Perfect Arrangement.” You will be treated to stellar performances, a reminiscent set, nostalgic costumes, and a fun thoughtful experience.

There is off-color language, smoking, drinking, sexual content, and violence. But nothing is gratuitous, only what is essential to move the plot forward.