We’ve all got that one crazy aunt whom we’re a bit ashamed to bring out in public. You’re probably picturing her now, with her over-the-top outfits and random awkward statements that draw glaring attention to the fact that there are some serious mental instabilities in your bloodline. And despite that slight dent on your family’s otherwise flawless record, you love her anyway. In 1955, Patrick Dennis’ novel Auntie Mame chronicled the adventures of a young boy, Patrick, growing up under the care of his deceased father’s eccentric sister, Mame Dennis. The story was a hit, mostly because we all know Auntie Mame intimately. She comes in different forms to American homes each Thanksgiving, saying lovably inappropriate things each time. Over the years, Dennis’ novel has taken the form of film and stage musicals. And for a short time, the Long Beach Playhouse will be performing it—just in time to prepare you for those holiday visits.
Oct. 17-18, 8 p.m.; Sun., Oct. 19, 2 p.m., 2008
