Theater Review: ‘Fashions for Men’

“Fashions for Men” marks another worthy addition to the oeuvre of the Mint, which specializes in uncovering and presenting theatrical gems of the past that have been overlooked.
Theater Review: ‘Fashions for Men’
Peter Juhasz (Joe Delafield), the nicest guy in the world, is having trouble with both his wife (Annie Purcell) and his finances, in “Fashions for Men,” a Ferenc Molnár piece revived by the Mint Theater Company. Richard Termine
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NEW YORK—Set in early 20th century Budapest, a handsomely furnished high-end men’s and women’s clothing store greets the audience. What delicious feathered hats! Fabrics! Neckties!

This sight is courtesy of set designer Daniel Zimmerman, aided and abetted by prop master Joshua Yocom.

“Fashions for Men” came from the fertile imagination of the prolific Ferenc Molnar, who penned 42 plays, including the lovely “Liliom,” (which later metamorphosed into the musical “Carousel” via Rodgers and Hammerstein), as well as journalistic pieces, short stories, and novels.

The shop in “Fashions” is owned by Peter Juhasz (Joe Delafield), the nicest guy in the world—so nice that he will soon go bankrupt if he doesn’t stop extending credit to just about anyone.

Adele (Annie Purcell) is swept off her feet by Oscar (John Tufts), a salesman in her husband's store. (Richard Termine)
Adele (Annie Purcell) is swept off her feet by Oscar (John Tufts), a salesman in her husband's store. Richard Termine
Diana Barth
Diana Barth
Author
Diana Barth writes for various theatrical publications and for New Millennium. She may be contacted at [email protected]