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Laughter on the 23rd Floor

By Neil Simon

The North Coast Repertory Theatre continues its 28th Season with the comedy Laughter On The 23rd Floor by Neil Simon. The production opens at 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 26 with a benefit performance for the cast and crew.

(Left to Right) Evan Needham, Dave Fuller, David Hamilton, Clayton Cook, Darcy Brown, Scott Osbourn, and Anders Carlson

Inspired by Simon's early career experience as a junior jokesmith (along with his brother Danny) for Your Show of Shows, the play focuses on Sid Caesar / Jackie Gleason-like Max Prince, the star of a weekly comedy-variety show circa 1953, and his staff, including Simon's alter-ego Lucas Brickman, who maintains a running commentary on the writing, fighting, and wacky antics which take place in the writers' room. At the plot's core is Max's ongoing battles with NBC executives who fear his humor is too sophisticated for Middle America.

The characters in the play are based on Neil Simon's co-writers on Your Show Of Shows. These co-writers included Carl Reiner, Selma Diamond and Mel Brooks.

The production is directed by David Moore who has been active both on stage and back stage in local theatre for almost a decade. Moore acted in his first play at the age of eight and first directed a play at age eleven. “Besides being very funny, the play is based on an actual point in our history, the Golden Age of Television, and the creative forces that made it and inspired or created everything after it,” explains Moore. “Chances are if you've laughed at something on TV, you owe it to the people portrayed in this show.”

Darcy Brown, David Hamilton, Anders Carlson

The talented cast features David Hamilton, Anders Carlson, Clayton Cook, Darcy Brown, Dave Fuller, Ellsworth Pence, Evan Needham, Kelly Hughes and Scott Osborn. Scenic and lighting designs are by Calder Johnson; costume design by Lauren Wieland. Kira Hooey will stage-manage the production.

Laughter On The 23rd Floor opens at 8 p.m. on Thursday, January 26 with an opening night gala that includes a champagne reception after the show. This performance will also serve as a benefit for the cast and crew. All seats for opening night are $15.00.

The performance on Friday, January 27 will be a benefit for RCAA’s Youth Service Bureau; tickets are $15.00. The performance on Saturday, January 28 will be a benefit for the Temple Beth El; tickets are $20. Regular ticket prices of $15.00 general admission and $12.00 for students and seniors will begin on Friday, February 3. The run will continue Fridays and Saturdays through February 18. There will be one additional regular Thursday performance on February 16. All evening performances begin at 8 p.m. There will be two matinee performances at 2 p.m. on Sundays, February 5 and 12. NCRT is located at 300 Fifth Street, Eureka. For reservations, group rates, or more information, please call 442-NCRT (6278)