From the quick-footed pacing of Chris (Rosalie Duffy) in the opening scene to the extravagant, whirlwind storytelling of Lenny (Neal Herring) that caps the night, Neil Simon’s Rumors is a masterclass in farcical hilarity. Directed by Kevin Colbert at the Lofte Community Theatre in Manley, Nebraska, this production is a comedic romp that keeps audiences laughing from start to finish.
With only three performances left — October 24th through 26th — local theatergoers will not want to miss what many audience members have called “the funniest show of the year.”
A Spiraling Comedy of Secrets and Lies
The play begins as friends gather for an anniversary party celebrating Charley Brock, the Deputy Mayor of New York, and his wife, Myra. Ken Gorman (Mason Gustafson), a lawyer, and his wife Chris are the first to arrive — and the first to discover Charley with a self-inflicted gunshot wound, while Myra is nowhere to be found.
Determined to keep the situation under wraps, the guests scramble to concoct a story that will keep the police at bay. As confusion and miscommunication build, the evening spirals into a madcap frenzy of speculation, cover-ups, and absurd excuses — all pure Neil Simon gold.
Sharp Direction and Comedic Chemistry
Director Kevin Colbert brings his signature energy and timing to this production, maintaining a brisk, laugh-a-minute pace that keeps audiences engaged and on edge. The cast’s commitment to the chaos is commendable — sustaining the intensity of a two-hour show packed with physical comedy, quick dialogue, and perfectly timed reactions is no small feat.
The uproarious ending of Act I left audience members racing back to their seats for Act II, eager for more antics. While a few jokes occasionally missed their mark, the sharp delivery of the snappy one-liners more than made up for it.
The ensemble’s chemistry shines throughout. Cookie (Phyllis Cremonini) brings an endearing humor to her chronic back pain, while Cassie (Victoria K. Lininger) infuses soap opera-style drama into her every move. Together, the cast functions as a well-oiled machine, navigating emotional outbursts, quick comebacks, and ever-escalating confusion with precision and heart.
Polished Production Values
With no set changes, the pacing remains smooth and uninterrupted. The elegant interior of the Deputy Mayor’s home, complete with formal wear befitting New York’s elite, grounds the chaos in an air of upper-class absurdity.
The technical elements are equally strong: lighting and sound were perfectly timed, from the believable rumble of an approaching car to the crisp ring of the stage right telephone and the perfectly cued party music. These details brought an added layer of realism to the farce.
A Mirror of Our Own Missteps
Beneath the laughter, Rumors touches on something universal — the lengths people will go to save face, even when they know they’ve done wrong. It’s funny because it’s familiar. Audiences laugh not only at the characters’ ridiculous excuses and tangled stories but also at their own reflection in those moments of human folly.
Final Thoughts
With its sharp direction, talented cast, and top-notch production, Rumors proves that local theatre can deliver a Broadway-worthy punch. The Lofte’s big red barn once again offers laughter therapy at its finest — a perfect night out for friends, couples, or anyone in need of a good laugh.
Make an evening of it by stopping at The Feedbucket for dinner before the show. Enjoy roasted chicken breast with garlic mashed potatoes, vegetables, and a dinner roll with a beverage for $12 — or $14 with a premium beverage.
🎭 Tickets: $25
📅 Performances: October 24th–25th at 7:00 p.m. and October 26th (matinee)
🎟️ Get tickets at: lofte.org/tickets or by calling 402-234-2553
Reviewed by Madison Garey
Manley News 
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