Winni Playhouse presents Neil Simon comedy 'The Odd Couple'

MEREDITH — The Winnipesaukee Playhouse’s professional summer season continues with the ultimate buddy comedy, Neil Simon’s "The Odd Couple." The play made its Broadway debut in 1965 before launching the popular film and television spinoffs. It follows the relationship between the neurotic, neat-freak Felix Unger and his slovenly friend and roommate, Oscar Madison.

The Playhouse’s production was chosen to showcase the talents of actors Robert Hooghkirk and Cory Lawson and, according to patron and company services director, Lesley Pankhurst, it’s “the rare case when we choose a play specifically for the actors involved. In just four seasons Robert has become a firm audience favorite, and one of our most prolific actors. He is best remembered for his performances as Hercule Poirot in Agatha Christie’s 'Murder on the Orient Express' and for last summer’s one man show, 'Fully Committed.' Cory is a full-time member of staff who has a long, respected acting career we have yet to showcase on our stage. The two of them together fit the bill perfectly for Felix and Oscar.”

It seems even playwright Neil Simon would agree with that. While living in New York, Lawson spent seven years as the personal assistant to the renowned playwright who once told him he’d make a good Oscar someday. Lawson doesn’t know whether that was meant as a compliment or not, but he’s “grateful to finally have the chance to play the role.”

Hooghkirk and Lawson are joined by a talented cast of actors including Timothy Adams Jr. and Evan Ross Brody who were recently seen in the Playhouse’s production of "Come From Away."

Livvie Hirshfield returns for her second season, having been seen as Linda in last summer’s production of "The Wedding Singer." Rounding out that cast are Jesse Garlick, Michael Jones, and Anya Petkovic who are all making their Playhouse debuts.

The production is directed by Rebecca Tucker who is best known to Playhouse audiences for her work on the stage, performing in nearly two dozen productions over the course of eight years. It is her second time directing a professional production at the Playhouse. Pankhurst said, “Rebecca is one of the most thoughtful, insightful actors we’ve had the pleasure of working with.

"It only makes sense that she brings that same talent, passion, and attention to detail in her work as a director. Additionally, she brings such a joyful presence to her work. We’re so honored she continues to return to us even as she’s entered a new phase in her career.”

"The Odd Couple" runs from July 17-25. Tickets are available at winnipesaukeeplayhouse.org.