It’s hard to believe that 60 years has past since “I Love Lucy” mesmerized us and had us in fits of laughter with the ever-so-funny plots that Lucy managed to wiggle in and out of.
Director Rick Sparks recreates two of the funnier episodes that made the show what it was. “Benefits” (1952) and “Lucy has her Eyes Examined” (1953) are presented as shows to be aired and the audience is the show’s audience. There is everything from an “applause” sign to a warm-up host (Mark Christopher Tracy) bantering with the audience and reminding us about the new miracle of television.
Lucy Ricardo (Thea Brooks), Ricky Ricardo (Euriamis Losada), Fred Mertz (Kevin Remington) and Ethel Mertz (Lois Hammel) recreate the characters with dedication, and bring laughs with great timing. Lucy and Ricky ring nostalgic bells for those who remember; the newer generation might find it a little more than corny when they are exposed to a time and place they did not know existed unless they watched reruns.
This is definitely a trip back in time including commercials that bring back happy, warm memories. Although lacking a bit of chemistry, Brooks and Euriamis bring Ricky and Lucy back for an enjoyable brief moment.
Where: Curran Theatre, 445 Geary St., San Francisco
Through: Nov. 23
Tickets: $45-$135
Details: 1-888-746-1799 or visit shnsf.com.
