The Odd Couple
By Neil Simon
Directed by Janis Arthur
Produced by Theatre Coppell
Reviewed by Aubrey Tarantino
One time I read something on social media that said, “everyone has an annoying friend and if you don’t have one, it’s probably you.” The great thing about true friendship, though, is that you both get to take turns being annoying and then still come out okay at the end of the day. Neil Simon’s The Odd Couple, as directed by Janis Arthur, at Theatre Coppell is the perfect example of this type of comradery.
While this story has a whole friend group worth talking about, the real focus is on Oscar, played by David Willie and Felix, played by Greg English, who are now both separated from their wives and trying to help one another in the aftermath. Willie is enjoyable onstage with outstanding comedic timing, especially with whimsical one-liners that are quick and land well, leaving the audience chuckling all night. His sparring partner, or best friend (though aren’t those the same thing sometimes?), is English, who strikes the perfect balance between hysterical and melodramatic. He is the epitome of the friend who will do anything to get attention, which is a friend I know we all have. These two were made to be onstage together and the evolution of their friendship is satisfying to watch.
Jessica Barnard and Kristin Vess turn everything up a notch once they arrive. Barnard plays Cecily, while Vess plays her sister, Gwendolyn. Cecily and Gwendolyn are neighbors to Oscar and Felix. When another friendship strikes up between the sisters and Oscar in the elevator of their shared apartment building, he quickly invites them over to continue their conversation. Both actresses create a levity and a much welcome challenge for the audience to thoroughly enjoy!
Theatre Coppell and Director Janis Arthur bring us a hysterical production of The Odd Couple that is an all-around success with unbroken laughter and tender moments that leave us reflecting on past and present companions of our own. If you’re looking for a night of non-stop laugter, I highly recommend going and seeing this production while it lasts. The Odd Couple runs until March 5, 2023, so don’t miss out! Tickets can be purchased at theatrecoppell.com
Audience Rating: G
Accessible Seating: Available
Hearing Devices: Available
Sensory Friendly Performance: While there is not a sensory friendly performance, Coppell Arts Center does provide Sensory-Friendly Kits.
Production Sound Level: Comfortable volume level
Noises or Visuals to Prepare For: N/A
Be Well,
Aubrey
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