Chaos and Comedy (Clarksville Little Theatre)

Lend Me a Tenor

Written by Ken Ludwig

Directed by Andrew K. McGill

Review by Erin Hargan Entire contents are copyright © 2026 Erin Hargan. All rights reserved.

Lend Me a Tenor at Clarksville Little Theatre is a fun, fast paced comedy of slamming doors, large egos, and serious misunderstandings. The cast of this production at Clarksville Little Theatre dives head first into the chaos with energy and confidence. As soon as the curtain rises the production commits to the show’s absurdity, and the enthusiasm of the cast keeps the audience laughing throughout.

Set in 1930's Cleveland on the night of a highly anticipated opera performance, the story follows a nervous assistant, a volatile star tenor, and a series of increasingly ridiculous mishaps that spiral out of control. What begins as backstage jitters quickly turns into a whirlwind of mistaken identities, romantic entanglements, and split-second entrances and exits that keep the audience laughing. The set is a single hotel suite which cleverly accommodates the constant movement, and the costumes add a touch of glamour to the chaos. The design elements create a playful, classic comedy atmosphere that suits the piece perfectly.

Comedic timing is crucial in a farce, and this cast rises to that challenge with great flair. The physical timing of this production is well rehearsed, with doors opening and shutting at just the right moment with clearly landed punchlines. As Max, Taylor Lockheart brings an earnestness to the role, approaching the madness of the production with sincerity from his character. Gary Tipton, as the world-famous opera singer Tito Morelli, captures the charm and flirtatious energy that role demands. The supporting cast is equally entertaining, bringing added hilarity to the show’s improbable situations, mistaken identities, and precise comedic timing. The cast keeps the momentum going throughout, making this show such a crowd pleaser.

Most of all, this production did what live theatre does best: bringing people together for an evening of pure, uncomplicated fun. This is something Clarksville Little Theatre does well, as Lend Me a Tenor kept the laughs coming and the energy high throughout.

Lend Me a Tenor January 30, 31, February 6 & 7 at 7:30 pm February 1 & 8 at 2 pm 301 Montgomery Ave. Clarksville, IN 47129 www.clarksvillelittletheatre.org