By Mark Ambrogi
Cheryl Fesmire knows it’s a treat to direct a Neil Simon play.
“I think it’s an almost perfectly written play,” Fesmire said. “Neil Simon doesn’t waste any characters. He doesn’t waste any words. He’s really at his best with ‘The Odd Couple.’ I think ‘The Odd Couple’ is close to being perfect.”
Fesmire will direct the “The Odd Couple” for the first time when Carmel Community Players presents the play from April 15 to May 1 on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at the Carmel Community Playhouse, 14299 Clay Terrace Blvd., Suite 140.
“I saw the movie first before I ever saw a stage production,” said Fesmire, an Indianapolis resident. “It’s not an easy play to direct so that’s good. It challenges the actors. This play has work for actors on stage such as playing poker. There is comedy but it’s touching, too, as you’re talking about friendships. I’m excited to be doing it.”
Michael Patton (Oscar Madison) and Dave Hoffman (Felix Unger) are the main characters. Debbie Coon, who lives in Noblesville, will play Cecily Pigeon. Colton Martin of Hamilton Co. will play Vinnie.
This is Fesmire first time directing a Carmel Community Players production. She has directed at several other community theaters over the past several years. Among the other places she has directed is the Center Stage Community Theatre in Lebanon, Main Street Productions at Westfield Playhouse and IndyFringe in Indianapolis.
“I was out of performing for awhile because I had to get a new hip,” Fesmire said. “So I’m hoping to get back on stage. I did quite a bit of acting before I starting directing because I couldn’t move well.”
The Friday and Saturday shows are at 7:30 p.m. and the Sunday shows are at2:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults and $13 for seniors (62 and over) and students. For more, visit carmelplayers.org.
