Theater: 'How to Succeed' Really Succeeds in the Laugh Department

Riding the recent buzz surrounding the popular resurrected versions of ‘60s Broadway musical, “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying,” the in Mattituck has its own version to offer at performances running through April 1 — and it’s really funny.

The story of “How to Succeed” revolves around a New York City window cleaner named J. Pierrepont Finch, a young man who wants to advance in life. In the play, a "Book Voice" tells him that one book — How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying —contains the secrets to the success he desires.

Tara McKenna as secretary Rosemary Pilkington — who pines after Finch, charmingly played by Michael Hipp— sings a heartfelt “Happy to Keep His Dinner Warm” near the beginning of the play, after Finch bumps into corporate bigwig J.B. Biggley, played by Dave Markel, and begins his mission to success.

Throughout the play, Finch battles the tall, blonde and arrogant Bud Frump — played by Greenport High School Junior, Peter Peterson — to whom Finch gladly gives his mailroom promotion offer in order to climb up more interesting ladders in the company. Frump’s selfishness is hilariously summed up in the “Coffee Break” song, which includes a well-executed goofy dance routine.

Other musical highlights include “The Company Way” — the ode to being a by-the-book employee, “Grand Old Ivy” — Finch’s clever way of sucking up to the boss through his undying alma mater devotion, and “Paris Original” — how all the office gals think they’ll one-up each other at the rooftop party with the “special” dress they’ve picked out. Jan McKenna, with clothing stuffed in strategic places as the seductive airheaded secretary Hedy LaRue, is also a laugh a minute.

“How to Succeed” also features an ensemble cast and a star-studded recorded cast of famous local voices playing the role of "the book voice." Community leaders such as Southold Town Supervisor Scott Russell, CEO Andy Mitchell and WLNG 92.1 DJ Gary Sapiane can be heard over the P.A. on different days of the production.

Each Thursday, , and Cheese Emporium will host an opening reception at the theater at 7 p.m. Weekend evening performances begin at 8 p.m.,

Tickets are $20 — call 631-298-6328 or click here to purchase online.