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January 29, 2015 by

Laughter on the 23rd Floor *

By Neil Simon
Directed by Alison C. Vesely
Featuring René Ruelas, Hayley L. Rice, and Kevin McKillip

Previews Jan. 28, 29, 30
January 31 – March 1

Insanity Reigns Amongst the Greatest Comedy Writers in History!

“Delivers plenty of hard laughs, thanks to stellar ensemble work!” “First Folio’s production…rises to great heights.” ★★★½ – Chicago Tribune

“Old style comedy – fast and furious!”– Wall Street Journal

The Cast

Andrew Behling as Lucas
Joe Foust as Val
Callie Johnson as Helen
Kevin McKillip as Ira
Steve Peebles as Brian
Hayley Rice as Carol
René Ruelas as Max
Steve Schine as Kenny
Wayne Temple as Milt

The Story

Neil Simon’s hilarious reminiscence of his days with the Sid Caesar show catapults us into the world of 1950’s comic maniacs, from Mel Brooks to Carl Reiner to Selma Diamond. As they scramble to top each other’s gags, they also struggle to deal with the rise of the commie-hunting McCarthyism in America and the changing whims of their NBC bosses, bent on making these irrepressible madmen something they can never be – normal and respectable.

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Announcing the Retirement of Founding Executive Director David Rice & Ceasing Operations in 2023

Over two-and-a-half decades we have mounted over 80 productions, produced 14 world premieres, and 6 commissions. We have had more shows directed by women in the past 25 years than almost any other Equity theater in the Chicago area. We also led the way in opportunities for women designers, resulting in multiple Jeff Nominations and Awards for the many women who have worked here. Thank you all for your steadfast support through all these years. We will miss you!

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What the Critics Say…

"A perfect storm of theatre!”

"…as rich an emotional payoff as I’ve seen on stage this year.”

“As delightful a respite as one could hope for in the gloom days of winter!”

"...stays with you long after you leave the theatre ”

"Clever, intelligent, charming and entertaining!"

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Our Sponsors

The 2021-22 Season is sponsored by Susan & Alan Becker and Daniel Nowaczynski & Nancy Ziegler.

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