BWW Reviews: New Jewish Theatre Closes Season with Outstanding Production of LAUGHTER ON THE 23RD FLOOR

Sometimes when I'm seeing a show about a particular subject I'll look through my library and re-read (or newly purchase) books that pertain to it. When I noticed that the New Jewish Theatre's production of Neil Simon's Laughter on the 23rd Floor was on the schedule, I decided to bone up. So, I picked up Sid Caesar's biography, "Caesar's Hours", and I also watched a few DVDs of "Your Show of Shows" and "Caesar's Hour", as well as thumbing through my copy of Mel Brooks' biography ("It's Good to Be the King"). Attempts have been made before to put on display that elusive magic that took place in the writer's room of those shows, including the Brooksfilm production of My Favorite Year. But, I think Laughter on the 23rd Floor best captures the moment, focusing its attention on the actual work and play that went on in the room between the star and his genius stable of writers. The current presentation by the New Jewish Theatre is simply hilarious, and greatly aided by a wonderful cast and terrific direction.

Deciding to fictionalize his remembrances, Simon creates the character of a young fledgling comedy writer named Lucas to act as himself. So, we follow Lucas as he struggles to come up with material that will actually make it on the air, and guarantee his continued employment. He's surrounded by a group of equally brilliant writers, each of whom has their own peculiarities and eccentricities, that are all vying for the same goal; to catch the ear of the star, Max Prince. Over the course of two acts, we follow their progress together against the backdrop "progress" of history, as Russia gets the H-bomb, and Senator Joe McCarthy attempts to root out communist within the entertainment industry.

Christian Vieira is likable and engaging as Lucas, and it's through his eyes that we come to love and respect these kooky characters that he encounters. Alan Knoll delivers a masterful performance as Max Prince, finding the humor and the heart within this bear of a man, who's battling his own inner demons and addictions. Whether he's badgering, berating, cajoling or encouraging his troops, he's always a joy to watch. Bobby Miller is an absolute riot as Milt, flamboyantly dressed, and always ready with a quick comedic jab aimed right at the jugular. Miller's one-liners continually keep the action from ever bogging down with sentiment.

Bob Harvey is also funny as Val, and his repeated mispronunciations of profanity never fail to produce a giggle. Jordan Reinwald is a real pistol as Kenny, with sharp comic timing delivered at rapid fire. Gary Wayne Barker amuses as hypochondriac Ira, who's forever being analyzed or treated for some mysterious ailment or condition, and B Weller has fun as the resident gentile, Brian. Kirsten Wylder is the sole female voice in the room as Carol, and she more than holds her own, crafting a nifty portrayal complete with authentic accent. Alexandra Woodruff is also good as a humor impaired secretary, who longs to be a comedy writer.

Edward Coffield's direction is splendidly realized, and the spirited interaction among the cast keeps the pace moving along frantically. Scott Neale's scenic design neatly evokes the era, especially with the snazzy stylized skyline peeking through. Glenn Dunn's lighting adds the right mood, and keeps the action illuminated. Michele Friedman Siler's costumes and Stephanie Strohman's props lend authenticity to the overall period feel.

I think that Laughter on the 23rd Floor might just be my favorite Neil Simon play, and I heartily recommend taking in the New Jewish Theatre's outstanding production which plays through June 20, 2010.

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