Some things never change
That valentine moment: Kathryn Pallakoff as Raina, Matt K. Miller as Bluntschli.
This is a very funny, accomplished production of one of George Bernard Shaw’s best plays. Director Michael Kevin has layered Arms and the Man in such a way that you can enjoy it purely as a hilarious, easily accessible romantic comedy involving conflicting aspects of love, honor, heroism and deception, all set against the backdrop of Balkan warfare circa 1885—some things never change. Or (if you prefer) you can climb up into that vast intellectual jungle gym of Shavian commentary on nationalities, history, patriotism and romance, and giggle as the great playwright deftly takes down one ripe prospect after another. He even finds a happy ending. It’s one of the smoothest productions the Sacramento Theater Company has staged in years—and a rare opportunity to see a classic English play staged locally with professional actors. Tuesday, Wednesday 6:30 p.m.; Thursday-Saturday 8 p.m.; matinees Thursday 12:30 p.m.; Saturday, Sunday 2 p.m. Sacramento Theatre Company, 1419 H St., through Feb. 18. $16-$32 Information: (916) 443-6722.
