Atlantic Theater's HOLD onto ME DARLING- Is too Long, Still it Grabbed Me

The lively comedy HOLD onto ME DARLING begins with a country singing star bemoaning the recent passing of his beloved mama.  After that, hold onto your hat because the enormous ego of its charismatic lead, Strings (a handsome hunky Timothy Olyphant) ensures nothing will fit his head.  Strings does not perform a solo of self-serving, manipulative agenda.  Nancy, hired as a masseuse to relieve Strings of stress, lathers herself onto this successful star and won't let go.  This appealing play has a lot to say about givers & takers, movers & shakers and sycophants, hopelessly devoted.   After learning of "dear mama's" passing, Strings skips out on the film he's shooting & takes a detour from his singing tour.  He heads back to his TN hometown to be with his brother for the burial of their mother.  Little brother commiserates with his big brother over their dear departed mama.  Strings tells his brother Duke he envies his life; a wife, kids & steady job.  Strings would gladly trade places.  It's Duke whose led the charmed life of a king.  Strings has never felt he lived up to mama's expectations.  Olyphant & Keith Nobbs as Jimmy, Strings' unctuous lackey are pitch perfect.  The clever rotating set helps the comedy roll along as Strings spins his lascivious web and gets himself tangled.  Does it always come down to blaming the mother?  I find no fault with this witty play other than it held on a bit too long.