Waiting for Dr. Hoffman - a one act @ the Roy Arias Studios

This was my first time at the short play festival, but it won't be my last.  Last night's performance of "Waiting for Dr. Hoffman," though short in length, was full of wit and humor.  It was also another look at the value society (women in particular,) place on physical beauty.  The play takes place in the reception office of a plastic surgeon which is run by a no nonsense, hard edged receptionist.  Three women come in "just for consultation." These possible clients include a successful financial woman who believes she is dateless because of her flat chest, a young college bound girl who believes she is friendless due to her large nose, and an older women who laments her life and lack of editing jobs due to the ravages of aging.  Meanwhile, the receptionist continues to get testier on the phone with a patient who insists on speaking with the Dr. directly.  All Hell breaks loose when this patient arrives at the office brandishing a loaded gun.  The humor and pathos in this play comes from the truths spoken amongst the women in the waiting office.  This clever one act by Michelle Willens speaks to the extent youth and beauty are highly coveted in today's society while making us laugh at ourselves.