STAGE REVIEW : La Habra Depot Playhouse Musters a Fresh, Faithful ‘Mister Roberts’

“Mister Roberts” is a classic American play realized beautifully in a deeply felt and lovingly detailed production at the La Habra Depot Playhouse.

The script by Joshua Logan and Thomas Heggen, born on the crest of jubilant patriotism at the end of World War II, still sounds fresh and sharp. Under Elisabeth Graham’s direction, it soars as a timeless story of individual courage that resonates with humor and tragedy--a story about families and heroes and courage continually reborn.

Tim Haldeman is a winning Mister Roberts: strong, passionate, fallible, fun-loving, honest and a true friend; a man inspired by a profound personal morality and an ecstatic love of life.

As Doc, Jeff R.W. Stevens has a warm sagacity deliciously frosted with a slightly world-weary wit. The scenes with Haldeman and Stevens, and those with Greg Izay as Ensign Pulver, the “harmless” overgrown adolescent, are rich and very enjoyable.

The entire cast is exceptionally fine. Graham and her assistant Scott K. Ratner, have created a highly believable atmosphere of male camaraderie, tropical heat and explosive monotony. The set and the lighting designs by Jeffrey Ault are ambitious and well-executed. Dave Temple’s costumes add to the feeling of authenticity.

In the lobby, there is a modest display of photographs of World War II and Vietnam veterans collected from the family albums of cast members. It provides a reminder that many of those involved with the production have their own memories of military service. The best reminder, however, is what shows on stage.

‘MISTER ROBERTS’

A La Habra Community Theatre production of Joshua Logan and Thomas Heggen’s drama. Directed by Elisabeth Graham. Assistant to the director: Scott K. Ratner. With Tim Haldeman, Alexander Mackenzie, Jeff R.W. Stevens, Charles R. Wolf, Greg Izay, Robert Moreno, Steven Eazell, Scott R. Yatchyshyn, Ron Graham, William Cole, David Lowe, Chris Hazell, Roger Smith, Bonnie Cottle, Jim Cavens, James Foley, Scott K. Ratner. Lighting and scenic design by Jeffrey Ault. Costumes by Dave Temple. At the Depot Playhouse, 311 S. Euclid St., La Habra. Show times: 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Tickets: $6 to $8. Information: (213) 905-9708.