Old-Time Politics Survive in ‘Belmont Avenue Social Club’

In Bruce Graham’s “Belmont Avenue Social Club” at the Two Roads Theatre, old-style politics collide with changing racial demographics and technology. The cast plays the testosterone-driven back-room braggadocio with a smooth oiliness that entertains despite the script’s shaky premise.

Existing in a pocket of American society in 1985 where white men can exclude minorities and women from joining their club, this is where Fran Barelli (J.J. Johnston), the head of the 51st ward, plots small-time politics. The death of his friend, Peter, has left a city council seat vacant. Although he has been grooming the younger media-savvy Doug (Pat Tanzillo) for years, Fran chooses Peter’s best friend, Tommy (Ted Schwartz).

Tommy is a likable fellow with little cunning and a secret that Doug exploits to further his own ambitions. In the background rumbles the racist litany given wheezy voice through Cholly (Edmund Gaynes), while Doug warns Fran of the growing nonwhite voting block.

Graham builds up to a final betrayal that is barely anything at all. When Tommy topples from political contention, Doug has only made the inevitable arrive ahead of schedule.

Under the direction of Schwartz, both Tanzillo and Johnston flare with vibrant arrogance during their final showdown. Gaynes and Michael Brooks as Fran’s sex-obsessed cousin also turn in respectable performances.

But it’s Schwartz’s Tommy who creates the tension, teetering between the kind of nice guy we wish politicians were and being too unworldly. We never doubt that Doug is the better choice. With his brash, slithery ways, he oozes the worst kind of political charm.

BE THERE

“Belmont Avenue Social Club,” Two Roads Theatre, 4348 Tujunga Ave., Studio City. Fridays-Saturdays, 8 p.m.; Sundays, 7 p.m. Indefinitely. $12. (818) 597-0960. Running time: 2 hours.