“When Joey Married Bobby” aka “We <3 Sarah"

What do a stuntwoman, a baseball player and a drag queen have in common? They’re all stars in William Wyatts play “When Joey Married Bobby”.  This work by the writing Duo WW is a campy sitcom dream ripe with political satire. Fresh but somehow familiar this little play serves up some huge laughs.

The play centers around Southern socialite Sarah Edwards (Tina McKissick) who endeavors to win the title of “Christian of the year” whilst attempting to plan a lavish gay wedding for her only son (Matthew Pender). Though, well off she still has to hide the growing pile of bills from her fiscally minded husband. Despite all her efforts to lead a “good Christian” lifestyle her faith and commitment are tested when her activist daughter invites a homeless man to live with them. Add to that the misguided preacher’s wife, Charity Devine (Lady Bunny), a foul mouthed mother in-law, and a sassy personal assistant and you have a sure fire recipe for homegrown hilarity.

Though billed as a play starring Lady Bunny, her role is that of a bit player. While her moments on screen are some of the most memorable of this piece the main star is Tina McKissick’s Sarah Edwards. McKissick quick one liners and comedic timing were reminiscent of comic legend Lucille Ball. Minus 1 Ethel, her comic nemesis came in the form of an ailing mother-in law- (Deborah Johnstone) whose snarky jabs were as insightful as they were hilarious. Not to be outdone Lady Bunny adds to the chaos as the well meaning but misguided Mrs. Devine, who in one scene, sends a party dress to a starving child she sponsors because “every girl should have a nice party dress”, an act that serves as an over the top testament to American decadence and ignorance. Though rounded out by a cast of eccentric characters McKissick carries this production artfully on her tiny little shoulders.

“When Joey Married Bobby” is as much about gay marriage as “The Hangover” was about a wedding. Though the event may have been in the center the characters involved eclipsed its importance by leaps and bounds. Don’t go to this play expecting social commentary on the pros and cons of a homosexual union. Go instead for its humor, heart and playful jabs at right wing agenda, better still just go see the darn thing and be entertained for 2 hours, you won’t be disappointed.

Visit whenjoeymarriedbobby.com for more info and to purchase tickets!