Crossing Delancey - Theatre Three | 1.19.25

Theatre Three is currently producing Susan Sandler’s romantic comedy “Crossing Delancey” from January 18th to February 9th and it is an absolute delight! Directed by Colleen Rebecca Britt, this charming play tells the story of Isabelle Grossman, a young woman living in New York City with an affection for literature and a desire to be part of the intelligentsia. She is close with her grandmother Ida (who she affectionately refers to as her Bubbie) who is looking for her to settle down with a nice, Orthodox Jewish man instead of the more casual romantic encounters she participates in and seeks the help of a matchmaker to assist.

Isabelle is played by Theatre Three staple Michelle LaBozzetta, who effectively portrays the close relationship Isabella has with her grandmother as well as her love for books. Playing this character is no small order, as she rarely leaves the stage so she must always be “on” - but this seems to be effortless for LaBozzetta. Complementing the relationship is Ginger Dalton, who plays Grandmother Ida. Dalton is a joy to watch - she takes her time with every moment and delivers one of the most even and natural performances I’ve seen in some time. Even the way she moves as an older person draws you in! She is super engaging and you won’t want to take your eyes off her.

Photo Credit: Peter Lanscombe, Theatre Three Productions Inc.

Michelle LaBozzetta & Ginger Dalton.

Before Bubbie gets things underway with the matchmaker, Isabelle finds herself smitten with Tyler (played by Antonine Jones), an author whose books she has read several times over. Tyler is smooth-talking and intelligent and Jones’ portrayal of him was spot on. Jones makes it easy to see why Isabelle was so taken with him. 

Photo Credit: Peter Lanscombe, Theatre Three Productions Inc.

Michelle LaBozzetta & Antoine Jones.

The matchmaker Hannah (played hilariously by Catherine Maloney) manages to find an Orthodox man for Isabelle, much to the delight of Bubbie. Isabelle is less-than-thrilled with her grandmother’s meddling but agrees to meet with him. It’s here that we meet Sam, played by Steven Uihlein. Uihlein’s portrayal of Sam is unassuming, sweet and thoughtful; yet Isabelle rebuffs Sam, much to the chagrin of her grandmother. She is too far gone with the idea of Tyler at this point and thinks that she would rather explore that.

However, it isn’t long before Isabelle’s good nature leaves her feeling guilty for the way she treated Sam and agrees to go on a date with him. On the night they were supposed to go out, Tyler asks her out for a casual drink and being that this is the moment she was waiting for - she absolutely has to go! Now, in the interest of not spoiling the *entire* story it’s probably best to stop here with plot points - however the conclusion this story comes to is heart warming and fulfilling.

Photo Credit: Peter Lanscombe, Theatre Three Productions Inc.

Michelle LaBozzetta, Catherine Maloney, Ginger Dalton, and Steven Uihlein.

Kudos to Director Colleen Rebecca Britt, who captures the heart and humor of this story wonderfully. The set design from Theatre Three regular Randall Parsons is perfect as well, making it so the cast can move from location to location with ease. I’ll be honest - if not for The Kyle Petty Show I likely would not have found myself at “Crossing Delancey” as this is not my usual fare (as I usually like to go the big musical route) but I would have missed a wonderful afternoon of theater if that were the case! This production is full of warm and charming scenes with lots of comedy to bring it all together, creating some really spectacular moments with something for all to enjoy.

Yes, the husbands too!

“Crossing Delancey” is running at Port Jefferson’s Theatre Three until February 9th. Tickets can be purchased at the door, over the phone, or online via their website at www.theatrethree.com.

Cast:

Bubbie - Ginger Dalton

Isabelle - Michelle LaBozzetta

Hannah - Catherine Maloney

Tyler - Antoine Jones

Sam - Steven Uihlein

Creative Team:

Director - Colleen Rebecca Britt

Stage Manager & Properties - Ally Humanitzki

Scenic Design - Randall Parsons

Costume Design - Jason Allyn

Sound Design - Tim Haggerty

Lighting Design - Indigo Shea

Technical Direction - Steven Barile, Jr.