'Laughter on the 23rd Floor' Comes To Elm Street Arts Stage

WOODSTOCK, GA -- Legendary playwright Neil Simon’s "Laughter on the 23rd Floor" will open next month at Elm Street Cultural Arts Village for a two-week run.

Set in the writers’ room of a 1950’s live comedy TV show, "Laughter" is a behind-the-scenes look at the early days of live television. It showcases the comedic genius of the team of writers as they work to balance their creativity with the many demands of the network and the star of the show.

“Neil Simon is a treasure of the American stage and screen, with shows such as 'The Odd Couple,' 'Brighton Beach Memoirs,' 'Lost in Yonkers,' 'Plaza Suite' and 'The Sunshine Boys' to his credit," the play’s director, Ethan Everett, said. "I love his work. I love slice of life plays, and this show is one wacky slice of life.”

• Please note the show is rated R for due to strong adult language and "bawdy humor," Elm Street adds.
  

"Laughter" is based on Neil Simon’s experience as a writer for Sid Caesar’s “Your Show of Shows,” along with the likes of Mel Brooks, Larry Gelbart, Carl Reiner, Michael Stewart, Mel Tolkin, Selma Diamond and Lucille Kallen.

“Neil Simon held that ‘Once you start compromising your thoughts, you're a candidate for mediocrity'," Everett added. "And that is part of what the writing team struggles with."

The show opens Feb. 10 and will run through Feb. 19, with performances at 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays.

Tickets are $15 in advance or $18 at the door. In addition to enjoying a fabulous play, those attending the show will be the first to experience the Elm Street’s new lounge. The setting provides for a "nice relaxed place for patrons to mingle and enjoy refreshments before the show and during intermission," said Elm Street Executive Director Christopher Brazelton.

Brazelton noted Elm Street has also obtained a beer and wine license, so attendees over 21 will be able to enjoy adult beverages.

For more information, visit Elm Street Cultural Arts Village's website.

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