Performances of ‘Jest a Second’ Continue This Weekend

By SARAH SHMERLING | Editor-in-Chief

For those who want to catch a performance of Theatre Palisades’ “Jest a Second,” four shows remain between June 19 and June 21.

The show, a sequel to “Beau Jest,” which ran in 2024 at Pierson Playhouse, was slated to open on Friday, January 10, before the playhouse was destroyed in the Palisades fire. All performances during the two-weekend run are taking place at Westchester Playhouse, 8301 Hindry Avenue, which is home to the Kentwood Players.

“The follow-up to ‘Beau Jest’ is finally here,” read a synopsis from Theatre Palisades. “Sarah and Bob are married and expecting, but now it’s Joel’s turn to hide a secret from their parents … and Bob is back to ‘help’ him. Get ready for more family drama and non-stop laughs.”

As the synopsis stated, the theater was filled with laughter from the show’s start to finish during the Friday evening performance, June 13. With several actors returning to their roles—including Jeff Coppage as Bob, Laura Goldstein as mom Miriam, Lou Silba as father Abe and Jasmine Haver as Sarah #1—the performers were able to build on the believability of the family dynamic that was created when “Beau Jest” was first performed.

The family was joined by Levente Tarr in the role of Dr. Randy Rosen, who has previously performed with Theatre Palisades for “Harvey and “Other Desert Cities,” and Jon Paul Burkhart as Sarah’s brother, Joel. Claire Goldhush has made her Theatre Palisades’ debut as Sarah #2, while Jennie Fahn, who recently wrapped a fundraising weekend for the theater of performances of her solo show “Under the Jello Mold,” was Miriam’s understudy.

The actors each filled their respective roles with what came across on the stage as ease—despite the show’s incredibly fast-paced timing. After a five-month delay, it was meaningful to see Theatre Palisades bring the show to the stage—a sentiment Director Jonathan Fahn commented on before the show began and in the program in the director’s notes.

“Our little show, which had been rehearsing since Thanksgiving week, lost its chance to shine just three days before opening night,” Jonathan wrote. “But, like a phoenix rising from the ashes, and thanks to the generosity of the people at Kentwood Players (as well as the Morgan-Wixson and Blue Door, who also provided us rehearsal space), we have lived to fight another day in this beautiful theater … we are so grateful to be here.”

“Jest a Second” was produced by Martha Hunter, with Silba as assistant producer. Set and lighting design was done by Sherman Wayne, with Susan Stangl as sound design and Josh Harper as stage manager. Costume design was done by Hunter and Maria O’Connor.

Remaining showtimes include Thursday, June 19, at 8 p.m.; Friday, June 20, at 8 p.m.; and Saturday, June 21, at 2 and 8 p.m.

Tickets are $22 for adults, $20 for seniors and students. Theatre Palisades is offering a free ticket to the show for first responders, who are encouraged to call the box office at 310-454-1970 with their badge number and preferred show date to claim a ticket.