“The Golden Girls Meet The Skooby Don’t Gang: The Mystery of the Haunted Bush” Reviewed by Frank Meccia

****Hell in a Handbag Productions has once again delivered a riotous and unforgettable theatrical experience with their latest world premiere, The Golden Girls Meet The Skooby Don’t Gang: The Mystery of the Haunted Bush. Artistic Director David Cerda has indeed saved the best for last with this hilarious and campy production, capping off the season in spectacular fashion. Directed by Frankie Leo Bennett, the show masterfully blends the beloved Golden Girls characters with the classic Scooby-Doo gang, creating a quirky, nostalgia-filled mashup that’s perfect for Halloween.

The performance is a vivid homage to the Golden Girls sitcom, capturing the essence of the iconic TV show in both humor and characterization. David Cerda, who plays Dorothy, brings his signature flair to the role, embodying the sharp wit and dry humor of the character with impeccable timing. His makeup and overall look are spot-on, though a slightly more era-appropriate wig could enhance the authenticity of Dorothy’s 90s aesthetic. Regardless, Cerda’s performance is a highlight of the show, as his comedic prowess is undeniable.

Grant Drager as Blanche delivers an uproarious performance that taps into the sultry Southern charm and exaggerated sexuality of the character. His portrayal skillfully teeters on the edge, pushing the comedic boundaries in a way that perfectly suits the outlandish nature of the production. Ed Jones, as the sweetly naïve Rose, completely nails the character’s look and mannerisms, capturing her ditzy but lovable persona with great comedic effect. The physicality and vocal delivery are flawless, making Jones’ Rose one of the most delightful elements of the show.

Ryan Oates returns as the feisty Sophia, the wisecracking Sicilian matriarch who never fails to land a punchline. His portrayal is remarkable for its attention to detail—from the way Sophia walks to the biting delivery of her famous one-liners. The ensemble of Golden Girls characters feels both true to the original while being humorously amplified in the campy world Hell in a Handbag is known for.

The Skooby Don’t cast brings a wonderfully faithful and absurd take on the classic cartoon characters. Tyler Anthony Smith’s Fred is a near-perfect imitation, right down to his signature orange ascot. Caitlin Jackson as Velva brings a sharp wit and intelligence to the role, while Elizabeth Lesinski as Daffy nails the character’s ditzy charm. Ben Meneses as Skooby, the beloved dog, and Josh Kemper as Skaggy, whose raspy voice is instantly recognizable, round out the gang with delightful precision. These performers clearly grew up watching Scooby-Doo, as their portrayals bring the animated characters to vivid life on stage.

Special mention goes to Danne W. Taylor as Nancy Drew and Scott Sawa, who hilariously plays Dorothy’s ex-husband Stan and also engages the audience with Golden Girls trivia during intermissions, adding an extra layer of interaction and fun.

The premise of the show is delightfully absurd. Rose’s cousin Fred (from St. Olaf, naturally) visits, bringing the Skooby Don’t gang along, only for a spooky mystery involving a haunted bush—or is it a tree?—to ensue. The bizarre plot is exactly what fans of Hell in a Handbag Productions have come to expect, and it works perfectly for a Halloween-themed performance.