THE ODD COUPLE Opens At Stageworks Theatre

Stageworks Theatre presents THE ODD COUPLE by Neil Simon, its fourth production of the season, from January 27, 2017 to February 19, 2017.

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Join the company for the story of two suddenly-single pals - diametrically opposites - that strain their friendship by becoming roommates and unconsciously repeating the same mistakes they made in the marriages they just left. See one title with a couple of versions!

Director Chris Gibson presents this classic story of two mismatched friends with a clever twist: alternating casts (one starring female roommates and one featuring male roommates). The male version is the basis for the launch of the 1968 movie, The Odd Couple, which became a franchise name on television in the late '60s and '70s. The female version was staged 20 years later in 1985 and follows the same story line as the male version.

"While Neil Simon's ODD COUPLE is a staple of American theatre, his counterpart female version (which takes place twenty years later, in 1985) is an underrated gem and this is a rare opportunity to see them both produced in repertory," says Gibson.

The genius in this staging is comparing the characters each night and how similar they are to each other, but separated by 20 years and, oh yes, opposite sexes.

Gibson continues, "We have assembled two incredibly funny, powerhouse casts and rehearsals have been hilarious. Personally, I'm having a blast exploring the differences in these two plays, not only between the sexes, but also of these two radically different time periods. Of course, what both plays have in common is Simon's unmatchable wit. He is truly one of this country's greatest theatrical comedians, and his work stands the tests of time."

This talented cast consists of Stageworks favorites: Nora Hahn (Olive), Rachel Landon (Florence), Megan Nix (Sylvie), Laura Renfroe (Mickey), Kiara Steelhammer (Vera/Cecily), Mark Mendelsohn (Oscar), Patrick Barton (Felix), Sam Martinez (Speed) and Justin Finch (Roy/Jesus). And often spotted behind the light board, Ron Putterman is joining us onstage as Murray. We are excited to welcome Chaney Moore (Renee/Gwen) and Manuel Abascal (Vinnie/Manolo) to the Garza Mainstage. The gender-bending production team is led by Chris Gibson (Director), Michael Montgomery (Artistic Director), David Dean (Sound Design), Ron Putterman (Lighting Design), Barbara Terry (Costume Design) and Kate Selby (Stage Manager).

Performances of THE ODD COUPLE are 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 3 p.m. Sundays from January 27, 2017 through February 19, 2017 at Stageworks Theatre's Garza Mainstage, 10760 Grant Road. Tickets are on sale now. For information, please call 281-587-6100 or visit stageworkstx.org.