Emporia State dishes up fast-paced comedy

Directed by Jim Bartruff, “Don’t Dress For Dinner” becomes a recipe for disastrous delight.
Directed by Jim Bartruff, “Don’t Dress For Dinner” becomes a recipe for disastrous delight. | Contributed image

“Don’t Dress For Dinner,” written by Marc Camoletti, serves as the third production for Emporia State University’s 62nd summer theater season, playing at 7:30 p.m. July 13-16 at the Karl C. Bruder Theatre.

The two-act production is set in a charming French farmhouse. In a supposedly fail-safe arrangement, “Bernard,” played by Mitchell Hoover of Oxford, attempts to organize an amorous weekend with his mistress, portrayed by Aubrey Jenkins of Admire, while Bernard’s wife “Jacqueline,” depicted by Lisa Tinker from Derby, is away.

Bernard arranges for a cook, played by Paige Lundin of Valley Center, to produce a festive meal. Just to make sure his plan is foolproof Bernard also invites his best friend, with Andrew Ralston of Topeka cast in the role of “Robert,” to provide an alibi.

Alas, Murphy’s Law appears to prevail, as the friend doesn’t quite understand why he was invited. It’s possible that he and Jacqueline are themselves paramours. Maybe the cook must pretend to be the mistress; perhaps the real mistress doesn’t know how to cook. Suppose that all the alibis collapse in a hilarious jumble, and Bernard and Robert must hastily ad lib to save face in a romantic entanglement.

Directed by Jim Bartruff, “Don’t Dress For Dinner” becomes a recipe for disastrous delight. Nathan Dale Short of Paola serves as assistant director, with additional support from scenic designer Chris Lohkamp, costume designer Amanda Dura, sound designer Andrew McCutcheon (Gardner), production stage manager Fran Opheim (Olathe) and assistant stage manager Logan Wohlford (Valley Center).

Bruder Theatre is located at 1301 Market St. For tickets, visit the Memorial Union Ticket Office or call 620-341-6378. All performances begin at 7:30 p.m.