DIVORCED, broke and sloppy — that's Oscar Madison, a born-again bachelor living the low life in Hebden Bridge Little Theatre's presentation of Neil Simon comedy classic.
His apartment is a shambles and each week a group of poker playing pals call round to plunge the pad into greater disarray. But that's the way Oscar chooses to live his life; he's happy wallowing in his own filth.
All that changes when he offers s
anctuary to troubled friend Felix Ungar who's at a low ebb having been cast out by his wife. The trouble is, Felix is passionate about cleanliness and good hygiene. And so opposites detract with hilarious consequences as the newcomer sets about tidying the flat, much against his host's wishes.
Their relationship is soon stretched to breaking point by their wildly contrasting habits. The seam of antagonism running through the plot is cleverly exploited by Chris Berry (Oscar) and Steve Dodwell (Felix) who are both excellent in the lead roles.
The cast of Oscar's poker playing chums all provide strong support; Speed played by Alan Stockdill ensures that Neil Simons shrewdly observed one-liners are not wasted. Sharon Kelly and Jenny Crowther play the Pigeon sisters from an upstairs apartment who arrive on the scene for a dinner date with a difference; they are perfect as the not-so-demure English girls seeking fun.
The audience clearly enjoyed the production which came with the usual Hebden hallmarks of skilful direction (Hannah Stow) and an imaginative stage setting.
This fine entertainment starts at 7.30pm and runs until Saturday.
