Inside Your Theatre’s New Bedford Comedy That Flips a Classic

The magic of community theater reveals itself in September with seven performances of The Odd Couple (Female Version) by Your Theatre Inc. at the Steeple Playhouse in New Bedford.

Your Theatre begins its 79th season with a revision of Neil Simon's 1966 comedy over two weekends, starting Sept. 12. Director Larry Houbre and cast member Kristina Dahlene visited Townsquare Sunday this week to discuss the production and the joy of community theater.

Houbre has been a part of Your Theatre for 51 years, working at many different jobs along the way.

"I like to say Your Theatre has kept me out of trouble because I've spent so much time there, learning new things and helping others," he said.

Dahlene first joined Your Theatre when it was located on Maxfield Street.

"I started as a stage manager working for Larry," she said. "I found I enjoyed performing on stage, pretending to be somebody else."

A Fresh Take on Neil Simon’s Classic

In selecting The Odd Couple (Female Version), Houbre said Your Theatre was looking for something that was recognizable.

"Everyone knows Neil Simon, and most people remember the original play, movie or TV show," he said. "I actually like the female version more than the original, maybe because it's been modernized just enough to have fun with it."

Why the Female Version Stands Out

Dahlene said The Odd Couple (Female Version) works on the same premise as the original.

"We have two women with very different personalities, one is very structured, the other is very laid back and slobby. Both these women move in together, and the comedy ensues," she said.

Houbre jokingly suggested those attending should bring a towel to dry your eyes from all the laughter.

Tickets are now available at the Your Theatre website or by calling (508) 993-0772.

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