Over the Counter
By Janis Hashe
Corporate schlemiel Oscar was once on the verge of pharmaceutical marketing glory – or so he says (it’s a long story). Now he’s back in the think tank, feverishly brainstorming with young, wide0eyed recruit Ted about the absolute perfect name for the company’s new analgesic. But wouldn’t you know it – just as Oscar’s light bulb comes on, unctuous boss Bob arrives to hear Ted take credit for Oscar’s burst of inspiration.
Over-the-Counter at Burbank’s Sidewalk Theater Company is a slightly slice-of-corporate-life, a true situation comedy. Writer/director David Jay Barry, who also plays Oscar, demonstrates an insider’s knowledge of company gamesmanship and back-stabbing; the memo which the conniving Ted composes at the end has the authentic smack of HR smarminess.
Those looking for character development and humor beyond pay-off lines won’t find it here, but the one-act is enlivened by a couple of good performances: Scott Vinci as Ted, the innocent who is all too willing to become manqué, risks a farce-inspired style that works despite the smallness of the space; and Brooke Benson (alternating with Tyhler Raye) as Alice the underemployed secretary provides many hints of intriguing back-story. James Chalke as Bob, the paranoid boss from the 23rd floor, seemed uncomfortable and under rehearsed. Sue Ulu, as scheming bitch Carol, had funny moments despite being relegated to a stereotypical role which smacked of misogyny. News flash: All women corporate execs do not get there by sleeping their way to the top or through” affirmative action.”
Barry himself, obviously a competent actor, would have benefited from being directed by someone other than himself. Even in a play as wispy as this, we need a little more insight into Oscar. Why does he put up with this for 20 years? Inquiring audience minds want to know. Kevin Michael O’Conner plays the coffee delivery guy who may become the new Ted. The simple set is serviceable (beware sitting next to the pillar that bisects the seating area, however). Perhaps the final verdict on this piece was rendered by an audience member, who at the show’s conclusion, repeatedly exclaimed that she thought it was, “So cute!” “Cute” let it be.