'Assorted Fruits and Vegetables' by Ron Spencer Takes the Main Stage Gary R. Beck - Beck's Best
November 8, 2014

Vallarta resident Ron Spencer, who has recently retired from Artistic Director in Indianapolis, awarded roundly for his stage shows, presented Puerto Vallarta with a comedy he wrote, directed and is star actor. The cast was well chosen and rehearsed to describe a smooth nonconformist love story applicable to everyone.

Assorted Fruits and Vegetables takes place in an all-gay retirement community, Rainbow House. The place was termed Family Meals on Wheels. Edgar [Ron Spencer] moved into the new home for himself since he felt lost and alone since his lover passed away. His comments were sarcastic, outspoken and biting at first, but smoothed as he became endeared to his fellow residents and care givers, especially Santiago [Lewis Moreno], an attractive Latino who carried in boxes and eventually shared his bed. Edgar had spent many vacations in Puerto Vallarta and became enamored with the local men with dark hair and eyes and cocoa skin. Santiago, who came out after the death of his young wife, found peace for his repressed feelings.

Head Administrator, played terrifically by Elizabeth Ensor, Katherine, herself a lesbian, provided compassion for Edgar and tried to make him feel a part of their community as well as he could during this major life change. Their banter was witty, harsh and thought-provoking, all at the same time. Marcia Blondin, Roger Uscila and Hal Bonta resided at the house well-adjusted while Di Lehmans portrayed a compassionate, hetero nurse.

Several skits brought the packed audience to cheers. A favorite was Gay Rap by Marcia and Hal with hysterical and touching lyrics. Growing up gay from childhood is difficult and the play deals with some of these emotions. Many guests present could identify too sadly. The road is not easy and can lead to lifelong problems with family, friends and lovers. The screenplay's harsh humor and sharp words underlined these dilemmas all the while offering sustenance.

"I could have danced all night" was hysterically performed by Hal and Roger as they tried to figure how to kiss each other while both were restricted by wheelchairs. Needless to say, they found the road to success.

Very enjoyable was the choice of background tunes, amplified by Act II's fine sound system. Lyrics being sung tied in directly to the activities on the stage floor. Lighting was accurate and proper and the staging set was erected beautifully and simply.

This play attracts people from every corner of the globe and sexual propensity. It is raw, open and true. Heard from one attendee this event is like a gay "Saturday Night Live." The run continues and judging by their opening night, Stages will be overflowing deservedly every night.

Assorted Fruits and Vegetables will be presented on the Main Stage of Act II at 8:00 pm on November 8, 13, 14, 15, 20, 21 & 22, 2014.

Tickets are available at the Act II Box Office in Old Town Vallarta at Insurgentes & Basilio Badillo or online at Vallarta Tickets.