This post was written by Hatchet Reporter Rachel Vorsanger.

Forbidden Planet Production’s rendition of  Neil Simon’s “Rumors,” staged this weekend at the Lisner Downstage, lent a zany, frantic energy to an already funny show, creating a cohesive and entertaining two-hour performance.

The cast was spot on in portraying their respective roles: four couples who desperately try to survive a dinner party filled with scandal without killing one another or getting arrested.

Senior Micah Lubens was particularly hilarious as the cynical, exasperated Lenny Ganz. Whether improvising with a malfunctioning prop or delivering a much-anticipated final monologue, Lubens gave an excellent performance that won over the audience. His wife, played by Ellen Barr, was perfect in her role as a jaded suburban housewife, nailing her lines with a deadpan delivery.

Sophomore Josh Benjamin’s portrayal of lawyer Ken Gorman was equally strong, especially after his character goes half deaf. Sophomore Amanda Barr held her own with Benjamin as his wife, Chris, with well-timed absentminded comments.

The audience itself, however, was also a highlight of the show. Generous and eager to laugh, Friday night’s audience members were receptive to all the play’s jokes and quirky interactions. By the end of the first act, their laughter almost erupted into hysterics as the lights went down.

The already intimate Lisner Downstage was further pared in size for the show by being transformed into a suburban living room. Although stage space was scare, this only served to heighten the show’s frenetic, comedic pace.

With a solid cast, high-energy crowd and a realistic set, “Rumors” was a great way for FPP to round out the year as the last straight play of its season.