ALAN COYNE AND REBECCA GRAYCE star in Benicia Old Town Theatre Group’s “Same Time, Next Year,” playing now through May 10.
Photos courtesy Joe Messina Photography

Benicia Old Town Theatre Group opened the final play of its 2013-14 season, Bernard Slade’s “Same Time, Next Year,” at the B.D.E.S. Hall on Friday. The 1975 play follows a man and woman who prolong their extramarital affair by meeting in the same hotel room every year over a 25-year span. The performance elicited knowing responses from the audience Friday each time Doris (Rebecca Grayce) appeared on stage in progressively modern period attire, but overall the script felt dated, and the actors tended to rush through their parts on opening night — all making for a less heightened theater experience than BOTTG usually offers.

Much of the challenge in “Same Time” lies in the subject matter, which doesn’t pack the same punch that it probably did when it premiered almost 40 years ago. Director Hester Schell also minimizes the passion and romance in the story, focusing so tightly on comedy that the illicit nature of the whole affair is downplayed, leaving the actors little opportunity to convey the story’s underlying tension.

As the two lovers meet over the years, references are made to both the changing times and the progression of their respective families’ lives. Their dress, societal roles and attitudes change, but their personalities remain the same. The two repeatedly tell each other that they are uncomfortable with the moral aspect of their actions, yet they remain aloof enough to cast aside that pesky reality and proceed in their long-term affair.

The BOTTG production is polished in many respects. The well-crafted set by Brian Hough is thoughtfully arranged and meticulously detailed. The succession of songs from the 1950s to 1970s comes through beautifully at just the right volume and bolsters the effect of period change as the scenes unfold, generally in five-year increments. The actors also project well, with absolutely no microphone mishaps — a treat, in my experience, that cannot be taken for granted. The styles the actors wear and the way they make use of the space in that small room both help to hold interest, which is important since it’s only the two of them on stage for the duration.

In one of the later scenes, Doris arrives at the hotel in afro, headband, tie-die and fringe. It’s a notable shift from the conventional vibe of the play, just looking at her in stereotypical ’60s hippie garb. But then, for me, things get awkward when she comes into the hotel room and immediately blurts out a loud and blatant invitation, without the air of teasing that might have softened the remark. Yes, cussing had become more stylish by the ’60s, but I don’t believe that kind of callous bluntness was one of the defining elements of the era, and for me it felt so abrupt, it whisked me right out of the flow. Suddenly, this annual tryst apparently lost any specialness it may have held for Doris up until then. Subsequent profanity in that scene seems appropriate enough, however, as Doris reveals more about her radical lifestyle change.

Alan Coyne is animated and entertaining as neurotic accountant George. Coyne masters the nuance of his role, nervous enough to accurately portray the self-conscious nerd but firmly in control as an actor. Both players have their timing down, so the action flows smoothly. It definitely feels like the two people know each other — there’s just no discernible electricity between them. The pair’s kisses are fraternal, and even their preludes to lovemaking feel like children’s play time.

“Same Time, Next Year” may well appeal to some audiences far more than others. It is a somewhat sentimental journey, as it touches lightly on the changing political and social attitudes of the passing decades. That allows those who may have lived through those times to reminisce, especially at the changing clothing styles — which, by the way, are well represented by long-time BOTTG costumer Dyanne Vojvoda.

Indeed, the production is put together well — but for this reviewer, the story just feels old and out of place.

BOTTG is to be congratulated for providing quality theatrical entertainment for a full 50 years to date. The company produced its first show, “Anniversary Waltz,” in the fall of 1964 and has not missed a season since. That is an impressive track record, especially considering the plight of community theater in general over the past several years. I have not been privileged to attend all of the troupe’s productions in recent years, but many of those that I have seen have been remarkable.

Congratulations, BOTTG. May you enjoy many more successful seasons to come.

If You Go
“Same Time, Next Year” continues at the B.D.E.S. Hall, 140 West J St., Benicia, through May 10. Tickets are $18 to $20 and are available by calling 707-746-1269 or online at beniciaoldtowntheatregroup.com.

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