Bob Korbett’s Adams Avenue Studio of the Arts (Korbett Kompany Productions) has extended its wingspan with the site’s inaugural production, Butterflies Are Free.

It’s a classic coming of age romantic comedy, taking us back for a nostalgic visit to the swinging ’60s: free love, hip-huggers, Lesley Gore and pot.

Don Baker (Michael Lamendola) is blind. His brief love affair with a girl named Linda gave him just enough valor to escape his Scarsdale mother, Mrs. Baker (Judy During) and head for the Big Apple to exercise his independence. He’s well-read, has a great sense of humor and wants to make a living strumming a guitar and writing songs. Lamendola found the perfect balance for his role; he’ll pull at your heartstrings with his impeccable timing, inviting smile, and bedroom eyes.

Jill Tanner Benson (Michele DeFrancesco) is his loveable neighbor, a free-spirited girl whose first conversation with Don tells you a little something about that spirit: “I’ve seen a lot of beds.” DeFrancesco plays her part with just the right amount of perkiness to be genuine, and the chemistry between her and Lamendola sets up a very winning, charming match of wits and wisdom. I expect you are going to see great things from these two actors in the future.

The play is about seeking your own identity, finding your rightful place in the world and looking at the parent/child relationship, with a few tips on when to set your own butterflies free. It underscores the fact that most of us remain blind to the real needs of others, all too often providing compassion when the ingredient needed is encouragement.

Although During plays the acid-soaked part of the upper crust parent with an effective edge, she manages to imbue the character with enough motherly love that the audience is able to discern mom is well-intentioned in her constant criticism.

Bob Korbett plays the part of Ralph, an egocentric director that Jill bedded after an acting audition, with the right amount of sleazy charm.

Aside from acting and directing chores, Korbett acted as theatre greeter, snack bar attendant, wardrobe changer, lighting and sound technician. Wow!

Don’t expect full-frontal nudity in this production, but do expect a large size sampling of love, valor, and compassion in a poignant story that is still just as relevant in 2003 as it was in the ’60s.

Butterflies Are Free plays through October 5. Call (619) 584-3593 for reservations or visit this article at www.gaylesbiantimes.com for a web link.