Review: On Theater: The Sixties live again in ‘The Graduate’

Those of us who lived through the 1960s will particularly enjoy the stage version of one of the more prominent movies of that era now unfolding at the Laguna Playhouse.

It’s “The Graduate,” headlined by cinema actress Melanie Griffith but also starring a young actor still shy of his Equity card — Nick Tag, turning in a brilliant performance in the title role made so memorable a half-century ago by a virtually unknown Dustin Hoffman.

Tag’s signature line — “Mrs. Robinson, you’re trying to seduce me … aren’t you?” — will draw howls of recognition as young Benjamin Braddock begins his sordid entanglement with a cougar lady he compliments as his favorite “among all my parents’ friends.” His nervous energy propels the biting comedy splendidly directed by Michael Matthews.

As for Griffith, she’s physically stunning but clearly more comfortable on film than on stage. Her best moments come in the first-act seduction scenes, less so in her uneven post-intermission moments.

Strong supporting portrayals are etched by Richard Burgi and Valerie Perri as Benjamin’s ever-supportive (to a point) parents. Geoffrey Lower scores as the outraged Mr. Robinson.

Martha Magruder blossoms quite nicely as Mrs. Robinson’s daughter, whom Ben pursues after breaking it off with her mom. One can only imagine what future Thanksgiving dinners will be like with this crowd.

As effective as the acting is Mike Ritchey’s selection of Sixties music to cover the frequent scene breaks. Only the number “Mrs. Robinson” is reminiscent of the original Simon and Garfunkel movie score. A few others would be welcome.

Playwright Terry Johnson has adapted the original Calder Willingham-Buck Henry movie script based on Charles Webb’s novel with special care. We do, however, miss the hotel clerk’s query to a perplexed Ben, “Are you having an affair here?”

Stephen Gifford’s adaptable setting slides effortlessly on and off stage, propelled by a cadre of backstage denizens and abetted by Tim Swiss’ sharp lighting effects. Kate Bergh’s attractive costumes recall the mid-century period effectively.

“The Graduate” is a truly nostalgic experience for the over-60 contingent, and Melanie Griffith looks great, if a trifle thin, in her scanties. The Sixties live again in this time-honored comedy at the Laguna Playhouse.

If You Go

What: “The Graduate”

When: Through March 25; 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays and 1 and 5:30 p.m. Sundays

Where: Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach

Cost: $45 to $80

Information: (949) 497-2787 or lagunaplayhouse.com

TOM TITUS reviews local theater.