Off the radar

The stage play is an adaptation of Richard Hooker’s novel, which was adapted into an acclaimed feature film and iconic television series. Set in a mobile Army hospital during the Korean War in the mid-1950s, the story focuses on the often conflicting, survival mechanisms employed by the enlisted and drafted staff. While the tone of the novel, film and series skewed toward humor, no punches were pulled when it came to showing the tragedy of war.

Unfortunately, Kelly’s script lacks any character development and tension. Kelly is considered one of the nation’s most prolific playwrights, but quantity trumps quality in this adaptation, reflected in the bloated cast and running time. For his directorial debut, Justin Brewer should have selected a better script with a manageable cast.

Upon arrival, the audience is treated to a fantastic set that effectively recreates the gritty location of the 4077th, courtesy of Mark Mandenburg and Melody Stratton. But once the cast takes the stage, the production heads not to South Korea but just south.

Mark Polzin (Trapper John) and Cassie Little (Captain Bridget McCarthy) give understated, naturalistic performances, but the regular army officers, including General Hamilton (Ed Baker), Lt. Col. Blake (Chris Goeckel) and “Hotlips” Houlihan (Sandy Vanlancker) are devoid of nuance. It would seem that the only direction they received was “more bluster.”

“M*A*S*H”

Riverwalk Theatre Through Sunday 8 p.m. Thursday-Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday $14/$12 students/seniors/ military 228 Museum Drive, Lansing (517) 482-5700 riverwalktheatre.com