Theatre Review

The Odd Couple: A Timeless and Enduring Duo
Neil Simon’s The Odd Couple prevails today as a true American classic. The most recent rendition of The Odd Couple maintains that stature as it is recreated masterfully under the direction of Curt Columbus and Michael Gennaro. Currently playing at the Trinity Repertory Company in Providence, Rhode Island this play is a leading example that simplistic aesthetic and quality acting can still combine to create a timeless work that resonates with modern times.
The Trinity Rep is a great location for the newest adaptation of The Odd Couple. The venue itself holds only a few hundred people creating an intimate experience. Walking in you are greeted by a smiling staff and welcomed by a well lit, charming lobby. As you make your way to your seats you are only further entranced by the quaintness of the venue. What makes this enjoyable is that the mood is relaxed and informal, the perfect combination for someone who is only focused on a night of quality entertainment.
We all know the story; two men from complete opposite ends of the spectrum, a neat freak and a slob, both of whom have separated from their wives become roommates. Through dialogue, costume, mannerisms, subtle gestures and expressions the audience is able to see the contrasting difference between the two main characters. Their natural ability to fit their roles only enhances the sharpness and quality of the play itself. The cast fits their characters flawlessly and their chemistry is undeniable. Fred Sullivan, Jr. plays Oscar Madison opposite Brian McEleney as Felix Ungar.
Oscar (Sullivan) enters the stage (set up as his messy New York City apartment) in wrinkled khakis, an unbuttoned shirt, a Yankees cap, a tray full of beers and food for his poker buddies (minus Felix who hasn’t shown up and has never missed a game). It’s only a few minutes before the supposedly missing Felix (McEleney) knocks on Oscar’s door in a frenzy wearing his business suit and an anxious look. Together the two play off each other to create sharp, amusing, and seemingly natural dialogue that makes you feel as if you are sitting in their living room with them.
A hilarious situation ensues in which the guys try to prevent Felix from jumping out a window or doing anything to harm himself because they feel he might try to kill himself as a result of his wife leaving him. Oscar asks Felix, “Where are you going?” and Felix replies in a high pitched tone, “The bathroom.” “Alone?” Oscar inquisitively and wearily replies. Their quick one line jokes and convoluted facial expressions are deliberately used to capture emotion and invoke the authenticity of the scenario.
While comedy appropriately remains the overlapping theme of the play there is difficult life matters that are dealt with as well. What’s maybe the most interesting aspect of the play is its ability to reach the audience on a much deeper level. Simon wrote the play in the early sixties when divorce was becoming an ever increasing reality for many families all over America.
Simon captures that real life issue in a way that people can relate to and be entertained by. Through the struggle we see directly in Felix and indirectly in Oscar we are able to see the stereotype of the impenetrable male façade wiped out and a relatable internal and simultaneously external struggle develop. Self identity and divorce are concerns many of us face. Simon is able to capture those concerns and emotions through the characters and situations he created.
A timeless play, notable venue, outstanding cast, intriguing and relatable subject matter all come together to produce an outstanding rendition of The Odd Couple. And as Oscar inquires, “Is everybody happy?!” there is confidence in saying that the audience’s reply would surely be, “Yes!”

Target Publication: Providence Journal