THE WEEK OF
March 5, 2003
Dames at Sea
Musicals for families
Datebook
Sammy Shore
Society
SJ Museum of Art
Photograph by Jason P. Winters
Rounding out the cast of Tabard Theatre's 'Dames at Sea' are (clockwise from top) Steven Anthony, Diana K. Turner, Anthony Santucci, Cynthia Harline, Brendan Abbott and Leandra Saenz.
Blue? See 'Dames at Sea'
By Estelle Pagnoux
Bay Area residents inundated by threats of war, an uneasy stock market and depressing reports of increasing unemployment are sure to relate to Tabard Theatre's performance of Dames at Sea. A satirical spoof on the Busby Berkeley feel-good movies from the 1930s, which were produced to lift the spirits of Americans struggling through the Depression, Dames shines a rose-colored spotlight on a dark decade in history.

This timely musical reflects the gloominess of a now-familiar time while offering a lighthearted parody of Berkeley's famous cast of characters. There's the hapless sidekick, the emotional producer and an aging diva with her token love interest destined to save the day. Lively songs and tap-dancing support this age-old story of big dreams coming to a fairy tale end, providing a welcome escape for those stressed out from too much bad news.

The Tabard Theatre Company, now in its second year, produces musical theater for the entire family. Dames at Sea runs March 7­22 on Fridays at 8 p.m. and Saturdays at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. on the campus of South Valley Christian Church, 590 Shawnee Lane. Tickets are $10­$15. Call 408.679.2330 for more information.