'The Pajama Game' playing at Riverside

Back in 1954 clocks and watches were important in offices. “The Pajama Game” is about never losing minute or 7-and-a-half cents. But it’s the characters, their relationships and the singing and dancing that is most apparent in the current performance at Riverside Center Dinner Theater.

The play opens with seamstresses keeping up with Hines’ (Stephen Hayes) watch, but when someone starts talking about not having a raise, the Time Study Man wants constant production.

At break time the workers change to very talkative cliques. Sewing room supervisor Babe Williams (Jessica Best) is the official complaint committee but changes personality completely after she meets Sid Sorokin (Evan McMahon) and learns his opinions. She leaves and Sid, left alone sings “Hey There” with the audience perfectly quiet. If that wouldn’t touch her, what would?

A few more interactions and they change attitudes. They sing together and Musical Director Rollin Wehman’s work is evident again. Babe’s words are not always clear though her tone certainly is, and the audience seems appreciative of the dance couple.

Soon other twosomes form and the problem of wages spreads and more actors become involved.

Heather McIntosh, a long-time standout performer at Riverside, featured in “Steam Heat” and “Hernando’s Hideaway” is featured.

Hines’ humor comes out often.

Choreographer Anthony Williams used dance moves from Bob Fosse, according to Director Stephen Hayes. The 55-year-old play explores the facets of “workplace tension,” and continues through July 5.

Riverside is starting a twice monthly Murder Mystery Theater on Wednesday nights. The first mystery “Trouble at the Tropicabana” will play four nights: May 13 and 27, and June 10 and 24. Dinner arrival time is 7 to 7:15 pm and the show begins at 8 p.m. Audience reaction will determine the outcome of the mystery. Call (540) 370-4300 or (888) 999-8527 for reservations. The first person to identify the mysterious character will win a prize.

Virginia Bare is a contributing writer for the Stafford County Sun. Reach her at info@staffordcountysun.com.