Susan Granger’s review of “Say Goodnight Gracie” (Helen Hayes Theater 2002-03 season)
In the most outstanding solo performance of the season, Frank Gorshin embodies George Burns, the wisecracking comedic genius who concocted the vaudeville team of Burns and Allen which later went on to radio, screen and television fame. “Say Goodnight Gracie” is Rupert Holmes’ amusingly inspired, engaging, biographical play, adeptly directed by John Tillinger, and the title refers to Burns’s traditional last line to his wife and partner, comedienne Gracie Allen.
The evening begins with Burns’ encounter with God in 1996 after his death at the age of 100. “I’m a big fan of yours,” Burns wryly tells the Almighty. “I loved the Ten Commandments.” But in order to get out of limbo, Burns must reveal his life and, thus, be weighed in the balance.
Utilizing film clips and waving his ever-present cigar, Burns relates his childhood on New York’s Lower East Side, peppering his banter with names of other celebs who shared his humble beginnings. He recalls how he met and married his beloved Gracie, whose ditsy delivery turned him from a jokester into a straight man, and how Jack Benny played a pivotal role in his life.
What’s most amazing is how utterly convincing Frank Gorshin is. Growing up in Beverly Hills, I knew the Burnses, who were friends of my parents. And here’s Frank Gorshin, best known as The Riddler in the ’60s television series “Batman,” impersonating George so convincingly that even Gracie would be astonished. Apparently, he always did mimicry and his repertoire includes James Cagney, Kirk Douglas, Jack Nicholson, Burt Lancaster, Marlon Brando and Edward G. Robinson. And now Gorshin will convince you that he’s George Burns. “Say Goodnight Gracie” is irresistibly genial, gracefully affectionate entertainment