On stage at Theatre by the Sea

The cast of The Broadway sensation "The Producers." The comedy-musical being presented at Theatre By The Sea through Aug. 31. For tickets call (401) 782-TKTS or visit www.theatrebythesea. com. Photo by Mark Turek If you like the theatre you owe it to yourself to see "The Producers" now playing at Theatre by the Sea in Matunuck.

I must confess — I have lived in Rhode Island for nearly 20 years and until last Friday I had never been to Theatre by the Sea.

I didn't know what I was missing.

Just a short drive from Jamestown, Theatre by the Sea is a historic Rhode Island landmark and this year celebrates its 75th anniversary. The summer stock theatre re-opened with much fanfare last year after its stage went dark in 2003.

The 2008 Theatre by the Sea season culminates with "The Producers," based on Mel Brooks' Academy Award-winning 1968 film. "The Producers" opened on Broadway in 2001. A smash hit, the show won 12 Tony awards — more than any other show in history.

Many people already know the story line of "The Producers," so I won't bore you with the details. Suffice to say that I have never laughed harder than I did Friday evening while watching the Theatre by the Sea cast and crew have fun with this bawdy tale and outlandish characterizations.

The audience obviously enjoyed the show, showing its enthusiasm at the end with a lengthy standing ovation.

There's no doubt that the "Theatre by the Sea" is once again a Rhode Island jewel. The facility has been freshly made over. Gardeners will also enjoy the colorful landscaping.

Before the show we enjoyed an outstanding dinner at the Bistro by the Sea, just next door to the theatre.

"The Producers" will be on stage through Aug. 31. Call 401- 782-8587 for tickets.

You will have fun, but it will be tough to get "Springtime for Hitler" out of your head afterwards.

— Jeff McDonough