“Four Old Broads” opens at Venice Theatre on Sept. 18, ready to remind us that sometimes the best way to enjoy life is to laugh with friends.
The story takes place at Magnolia Place, a 1990s assisted-living facility where bingo games, beauty pageants, and daydreams about a “Sassy Seniors Cruise” are all part of daily life. When newcomer Imogene Fletcher’s memory starts failing, her friends suspect someone is meddling with her medication. Their investigation drags them right into the weirdly shady world of questionable nursing, a cross-country drug ring, and, naturally, a healthy helping of mischief.
The heart of the show lies with four unforgettable women. Pamela Hawkins dives into the role of Beatrice Shelton, a retired burlesque queen whose bawdy zingers and cruise ship fantasies light up the stage. Alyssa Goudy’s Eaddy Mae Clayton in a strong, yet balanced performance, is her pious partner-in-crime, passionately praying her way through every twist and turn. Ruth Shaulis plays Imogene, lost and vulnerable without ever fading into the background. And Candace Artim’s Maude Jenkins is comedy gold, a funeral-obsessed soap opera fanatic who finally gets a shot at genuine joy in the Magnolia beauty pageant.
Adding to the mayhem is Sam Smith (Ray Cecire), everyone’s favorite Elvis impersonator and wannabe Romeo; nurses Pat Jones (Bridget Phillips, who brings real menace to the part) and Ruby Sue Bennett (Cassandra Gerardo, making a charming debut); plus the solid Linda Garland as one more Magnolia Place resident.
Director Alyssa Goudy, who also plays Eaddy Mae, says there’s no better time for a show that’s pure, unfiltered fun: “There’s so much to celebrate here. Our Jervey Theatre’s almost finished, the new season’s starting, and we’ve got the most amazing volunteers around. Laughter is healing. And sometimes it’s hard to find that in the world around us, so we might as well dive in when we can.”
Playwright Leslie Kimbell draws from years touring as a burlesque headliner. Her humor is salty, and the script pops with southern sass and brash confidence. Some critics call “Four Old Broads” a little raunchy, but there’s no denying audiences love it. It’s a clever blend of slapstick, witty barbs, and fast-paced turns that, under Goudy’s tight and expert direction, feels snappy and full of heart. Even the most serious theatregoer finds themselves rooting for these four women.
If you want the gist, it’s a dash of Southern-fried “Golden Girls” (PG13-plus) meets “Murder, She Wrote.” There’s a reason critics call it a “crowd-pleaser.” Many community theaters around the country have already claimed it as a box-office smash, and it’s easy to see why.
The creative team ties it all together: Goudy pulls triple-duty on sound design as well as director and playing the role of Eaddy Mae and makes it all look easy; Tim Wisgerhof delivers engaging sets; John Michael Andzulis sets the mood with thoughtful lighting; and Ross Boehringer’s costumes are a delight, suiting each character perfectly.
Do yourself a favor and grab your tickets while they’re still available (many of the performances are already sold out). These “Four Old Broads” are the best company you’ll keep all season.
Leslie Kimbell’s comic mystery is now running at the Raymond Center September 18 through October 11, 2026. Performances are every evening, Tuesday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m., plus Sunday matinees at 2:00 p.m.
Tickets run $40 for adults and seniors, $30 for college students and educators, and $19 for kids through high school. Reserve your seats at www.venicetheatre.org or call 941-488-1115. The Raymond Center is at 140 Tampa Ave. W. in Venice, just behind the main building.
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