by Adam F. Cohen . . .
Steve Guttenberg starred in more movies between 1980 and 1990 as Gene Hackman. Remember Police Academy (and two sequels), Three Men and a Baby (plus sequel), Cocoon (plus sequel), Short Circuit. I’m probably forgetting four or five.
The man himself is now starring in the story of his life as a play “Tales from the Guttenberg Bible” at George Street Playhouse. Guttenberg is a genial man. He’s self-effacing and pleasant. Yet his drive and determination to be a movie star drives the first portion of the play. And what a story it is?!

At 17, he departs Long Island, lives in the house of his godfather, and talks his way onto the Paramount lot and into a Kentucky Fried Chicken commercial. This and other stories of his making his way to number one are ably and agilely performed by Guttenberg, Arnie Burton, Dan Domingues, and Carine Montbertrand.
Domingues, Montebertrand, and Burton switch roles and costume pieces lightning fast. They pop through windows a la TV’s “Laugh In.” The play is based on Guttenberg’s book of the same name. Both are filled with honesty and wit. With lines like “Forget being an actor. You don’t have the look, you don’t have the talent, and your name is ridiculous. You are the last guy I would ever pick to be a movie star” – one can see how it kept Guttenberg grounded but ambitious to prove everyone wrong. And he does.
Hollywood stories are usually full of sex, drugs, alcohol and redemption. Guttenberg’s is a rather straight forward play of ambition, drive, and thanks to his parents – grounding. He avoids the trappings of temptation – unless you count starring in a movie produced by Alan Carr that featured The Village People. Or hoping around Studio 54 with Andy Warhol in the background. Sure, there’s a semester’s worth of bong hits in college, but he left quickly to score a movie part.

Ultimately, Tales from the Guttenberg Bible’s through line is his love for his parents, particularly his father. While we get glimpses of the love and values imbued by his parents, they and everyone else are quick character sketches – giftedly portrayed by the three other actors. It’s an engaging, fun evening out that surely entertains and warms the heart.
Director David Saint keeps the action moving. While clearly relishing the spotlight, Guttenberg’s portrayal of his life is straight forward and likable. Caite Hevner’s scenic and projection design cleanly sets the tone; Lisa Zinni’s costumes ably allows the actors to distinguish the many characters they portray.
Having seen so many of Guttenberg’s films – it’s easy to wonder, hey what happened to him? Like an old friend you forgot about on Facebook…the gift of “Tales from the Guttenberg Bible” is how we get to catch up with him. It’s worth the trip.
The show plays through May 21st at George Street Playhouse. An additional production will run this summer at Bay Street Theater in Sag Harbor. Tickets and more information at georgestreetplayhouse.org or baystreet.org
Photos: T. Charles Erickson
Featured Image: Steve Guttenberg – Arnie Burton