The most popular mismatched roomies in theatrical history, neurotic neat-freak Felix Ungar and slovenly Oscar Madison, bring their grouch-fest to Surrey Arts Centre in January.
The Arts Club’s touring version of the Neil Simon’s classic The Odd Couple runs Jan. 14-24 at the centre’s mainstage.
The show, 50 years old in 2015, was Simon’s third big Broadway hit, following his successes with Come Blow Your Horn (1961) and Barefoot In The Park (1963).
The Arts Club production – with set design by David Roberts and costume design by Barbara Clayden – returns the often-updated comedy to its original 1960s context, director John Murphy explained in a recent release.
“It’s a period piece – think Mad Men, but really, really funny,” he said.
“The one-liners are rapid-fire and non-stop, yet it still manages to be a touching story of two best friends trying to work out the differences.”
When life changes bring them together as roommates, newswriter Felix and sportswriter Oscar have to learn to co-exist, in spite of what seem to be irreconcilable differences.
“This is ultimately a comedy about friendship – in particular, the powerful bond of male friendship,” Murphy said.
“It’s a timeless story that audiences loved last season and I’m excited to now be taking our hit production on tour.”
Leads Robert Moloney (Felix) and Mike Wasko (Oscar) are joined by a strong supporting cast including Sasa Brown and Kate Dion-Richard as the Pigeon sisters, and Cavan Cunningham, Josh Drebit, Alex Willows and Joel Wirkkunen as Oscar and Felix’s poker-playing buddies.
For tickets and information on the Surrey run, call 604-501-5566.
