Steve Martin's "The Underpants," to be performed by the Salem Theatre Company at First Church in Salem from July 16 to Aug. 2, begins with a glimpse of something shocking.
Set in Dusseldorf in 1910, the play is adapted from Carl Sternheim's German original. The story centers on Theo and Louise Maske, a respectable couple trying to recover their composure after Louise's bloomers fall down when she waves to the king. Theo is convinced this moment of immodesty, however minor, has ruined his reputation.
Mostly, the fallen garment attracts some unusual characters, including a busybody neighbor, who put a strain on the couple's relationship. What is finally exposed — to ridicule — in the comedy that results, are the couple's values and those of their middle-class culture.
Sternheim's targets included anti-Semitism and sexual double standards in the Germany of his day. Steve Martin adds more contemporary concerns, such as our obsession with fame, into the satirical mix.
Martin also doesn't hesitate to poke fun at himself.
"There are some self-referential jokes about banjo players in there," referring to Martin's stand-up comedy act, according to director Dominick Pangallo.
The cast will include the company's new artistic director, John Fogle, with Sarah Carlin, Stephen Cooper, Bob Karish, Craig Owen, Caroline Watson-Felt and James Wilcox.
In a special offer, the Salem Theatre Company will give nearly 50 free tickets, 12 for each performance of "The Underpants," to subscribers of the North Shore Music Theatre. These tickets will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis through the theater's box office and e-mail address. Proof of NSMT subscription will be required.
"The Underpants" is the last main-stage event in the company's current season.
Salem Theatre Company's seventh season will include three main-stage productions, starting with Joe Orton's "Loot" in February 2010, Michael Frayn's "Alphabetical Order" next April and "Hair," the company's first musical, next June.
Second-stage events will include "Chilling Tales" this October, "A Child's Christmas in Wales" in December, April's "Shakespeare Open Mic," "Moments of Play" in July, then another "Improv on the Bricks" next October.
Performances of "The Underpants" on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays will be held at 8 p.m. and on Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for students and seniors, at www.salemtheatre.com and www.mrktx.com/stc, or by calling 978-790-8546 or e-mailing info@salemtheatre.com.
