Review: THE ODD COUPLE is a Spectacular Showcase of Soulpepper's Best

The new spring programming at the Young Centre for the Performing Arts begins with the return of Neil Simon's THE ODD COUPLE. This comedic classic of polar opposite friends-turned-roommates is an illustration of what Soulpepper does best - which is why this encore is on stage again until June 11. Starring Founding Artistic Director of Soulpepper, Albert Schultz as infamous slob Oscar Madison, and fellow Founding Member, Diego Matamoros as the level-headed and neurotic Felix Ungar, THE ODD COUPLE assembles some of Soulpepper's best for a near-flawless night of classic comedy.

The premise is simple. Felix Ungar (Matamoros) is thrown out by his wife and begins an unlikely partnership with his friend Oscar Madison (Schultz). Ungar is a neat freak, obsessive and still reeling from the emotional aftermath of his looming divorce. This is a sharp contrast from the free-spirited and messy Madison. The three-act play follow their unconventional relationship as roommates and all the frustrations that come with living with someone who is the polar opposite. It's a classic tale that has been told time and time again, with various on-stage and on-screen adaptations.

Albert Schultz and Diego Matamoros bring this iconic couple to life with roles that are seemly written for them. Their natural chemistry with each other is evident; paired with their strong comedic timing and energy, are pure gold. Their long working history together add a much needed organic energy to the production, it didn't seem or feel like acting - but rather two guys on stage, living life. With a strong supporting cast of the poker gang; Derek Boyes, Kevin Bundy, Oliver Dennis, John Jarvis, and Raquel Duffy and Sarah Wilson taking on the Pigeon sisters, it's truly a remarkable lineup of some of Soulpepper's best. The three-act play flies by and is a pure delight.

Stuart Hughes directs this classic adaptation of the Simon classic - while not breaking new ground, the production is tight and an ode to classic theatre. It's not a theatre revelation or something unexpected - but it's hard to fault a production that is so tightly produced and snappy. Similar to JITTERS that played earlier this season, Soulpepper has these staple productions in their arsenal that never fail to deliver. It's a strong showcase of acting, direction and production - the combination of the three solidifies THE ODD COUPLE as a sure-fire hit yet again.

Now playing at the Young Centre for the Performing Arts until June 11. For tickets and more information, visit soulpepper.ca.

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