On Golden Pond — A Review

Minnetonka Theatre presents “On Golden Pond,” starring husband and wife duo Susanne Egli and James Cada. For the unfamiliar, “On Golden Pond” follows retired couple Norman and Ethel Thayer over the course of one summer at their lake house in Maine. Norman is a cantankerous old man whose life-long preoccupation with death has reached a new high now that he is struggling with his memory. Ethel is one of those women who overcompensates for a surly partner with an in-your-face sunniness that is charming until the façade slips. The Thayers’ summer is interrupted by a visit from their daughter and a surprise guest who matches Norman’s attitude and breathes new life back into him.

Egli and Cada have a long history with Minnetonka Theatre, having directed more than 20 productions at Minnetonka High School over the years. The theater chose to honor their commitment to Minnetonka Theatre by featuring them in this classic show. The duo is a pleasure to watch and their supporting cast is strong. Michael Quadrozzi is a perfectly obnoxious Charlie Martin, Laura Baker is a sweet Chelsea Thayer Wayne, Carter Monahan is an enthusiastic Billy Ray and Chance Carroll is a charming Bill Ray.

I found myself particularly charmed by the set design of this production. The entire thing takes place inside the lake house, which is cluttered, cozy, and full of little nooks and crannies.

I recommend “On Golden Pond” for people who like stories about cantankerous men finding their soft spots, anyone who wants to support student theater and folks who love Susanne Egli and James Cada.

The show runs September 14, 21 and 28 at 7:30 p.m. and September 15, 21, 22, 28 and 29 at 2 p.m.

Tickets may be purchased online at minnetonkatheatre.com or by phone at (952) 401-5898.

Tickets range from $15 to $32.