The classic Neil Simon play, which forevermore gave a name for any unlikely pair of people, returns to remind us of the original odd couple: Oscar and Felix, whose long friendship is tested by living together.

This new production delivers plenty of charm and chuckles, especially thanks to the well-cast actors. They are led by real-life friends Todd McKenney and Shane Jacobson in the title roles.

Todd McKenney and Shane Jacobson The Odd Couple. Photo © Pia Johnson

Premiering on Broadway in 1965, The Odd Couple scooped four Tony Awards, including best author for Simon. A film adaptation followed three years later, a TV sitcom in 1970-75, and countless revivals over the decades. Simon even wrote a gender-swapped version in 1985.

The play sees neurotic clean freak Felix move into his slovenly, easygoing friend Oscar’s apartment. In a comic allusion to stereotypical married life, they soon get on each other’s nerves, and the audience gets a fair idea why Felix’s wife has just thrown him out and Oscar is divorced.

Set in 1960s New York City, The Odd Couple sometimes shows its age. The storytelling can be gendered, from the ditzy female neighbours...