Berkshire on Stage

by Emily Edelman

Clocking in at just 65 minutes, “Sidekicked” by Kim Powers, currently being staged at Dorset Theatre Festival, is a riveting look at the real-life goings-on behind the scenes of America’s perennial favorite TV show, “I Love Lucy.”

The title refers to the position of actress Vivian Vance as Ethel Mertz in relation to Lucille Ball’s character as well as Vance’s tempestuous relationship with her colleague. The play takes place on the eve of the taping of the show’s final episode in 1960.

A one-person production requires that its performer be exceptionally skilled and engaging, able to carry the piece through its entirety without compromising the interest or attention of the audience, and Kelly McAndrew does this brilliantly. Her portrayal of Vance is animated and immersive, allowing the audience to feel her anger and frustration while also being able to sympathize with the difficult family situations and mental health challenges of her past.

Director Jackson Gay’s utilization of Riw Rakkulchon’s attractive dressing-room set is fascinating; from emoting on the piano to addressing the audience from a prone position on the chaise lounge to applying stage makeup (accurately and without the use of a mirror, no less!), McAndrew’s movements add much to illustrate her character’s apprehension about and ultimate acceptance of her present moment.

“Sidekicked” runs through Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 at the Dorset Theatre Festival, Cheney Road, Dorset, VT. Playwright: Kim Powers. Director: Jackson Gay. Cast: Kelly McAndrew. Scenic designer: Riw Rakkulchon. Costume designer: Fabian Fidel Aguilar. Lighting designer: Seth Reiser. Sound designer: Sinan Refik Zafar. Wig designer: Rachel Padula-Shufelt. Production stage manager: Kate Croasdale.