So how was your November? Me? Well, it was a bit hectic. We lost a leading actor, and two other actors moved up to take the vacated roles.  The cast had to adjust to the shift and they did so with grace and good humor.  Our marketing department sent out calls and e-mails telling ticket buyers that one of our stars was recuperating in the hospital, as well as e-mailing and chatting with our over 6,000 subscribers to let them know that George was going to be fine and “the show will go on.”

How did all this go?

Like butter. The cast of The Odd Couple, led by Tim Kazurinsky and Marc Grapey, strapped on their funny shoes and got running. And what an ensemble! Bill Dick, Peter DeFaria, Bruce Jarchow, Phil Ridarelli, Molly Glenn, and Katherine Keberlein (and Luke Renn who went on for two nights as Murray the Cop), formed a family of pros, and while missing George Wendt, embraced the very gifted and different Marc Grapey and were inspired in their work.

Yes it was difficult, yes it was a challenge, but all were cool, professional and generous. And Marc and Tim were devoted to each other and the material, and that too was heartening.

I admire the resiliency of this play and its firm structure, welcoming all types of actors and interpretations. And still, nearly 50 years after its debut, it’s knocking out audiences with delight. No matter how well the audience thinks they know the play, they are surprised by its artistry and its craft. It’s Neil Simon that is drawing audiences to Northlight right now, and we are proud to produce his work.

As for our friend George Wendt, he’s doing beautifully, delighting his doctors with his progress and raring to get back to work. We are so glad for him and his wife Bernadette, and grateful that he was here with us where their family could gather around in support.

Busy month, but we are proud of the results, and grateful for our buddy George’s recovery.

BJ Jones, Artistic Director