Habits are hard to change, but Maripat Donovan sheds the nun’s garb she wore on stage for two decades to assume a new identity as Mrs. Honey Buczkowski in the play “Ask Mrs. Honey B., Certified Life Coach,” show at the Laguna Playhouse through June 24.
After 20 years and roughly 250,000 performances of the successful “Late Night Catechism” and its five sequels, Donovan re-introduces herself as the irrepressible Mrs. Honey B.
Expanding on the wit that made her famous as well as earning her a Spirit of Benedict Award (for individual commitment) from the Benedictine Sisters, Donovan becomes the colorful character who re-invents herself. The home economics and health teacher transforms into an expert on “the good life” and ways to obtain it. Since a life-coach needs eager clients she turns couples counseling sessions with Frank and Angie Travertino (played by Scott Bielecky and Denise Fennell who starred in the play “Tony ’n Tina’s Wedding”) once again into resonant amusement.
Known for her improvisational skills, Donovan works from a flexible script, with no two shows being exactly the same, said theater spokesman Greg Renoe. Couples in the audience may be called upon to join Mrs. Honey B. in impromptu counseling sessions, with hilarity the only predictable outcome.
Marc Silvia, who with Donovan co-wrote “Late Night Catechism 2” and also directed “Catechism” sequels, directs “Ask Mrs. Honey B….”
Through June 24. Tickets $35-$65. Tue.-Sat. 8 p.m., Thur. June 14 and Sat. & Sun. matinees at 2 p.m. Moulton Theatre, 606 Laguna Canyon Rd. 949-497-2787 (www.lagunaplayhouse.com
