The Players Stage Barefoot in the Park

**The Players Stage Brings Neil Simon’s Classic Comedy ‘Barefoot in the Park’ to Conroe’s Owen Theatre**

Get ready for an evening of side-splitting laughter as The Players Stage presents Neil Simon’s beloved classic comedy, *Barefoot in the Park*, at the historic Owen Theatre in downtown Conroe. Performances are set to begin this Friday, April 26th, and will run through May 12th. Showtimes are Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., with Sunday matinees at 2 p.m.

Located at 225 Metcalf Street, the Owen Theatre provides the perfect intimate setting for this timeless romantic comedy, widely regarded as one of Neil Simon’s most enduring works. Simon, a Pulitzer Prize winner and one of America’s most celebrated playwrights, masterfully blends humor with poignant observations on relationships, making *Barefoot in the Park* a perennial audience favorite since its 1963 Broadway premiere.

The story introduces audiences to newlyweds Corie and Paul Bratter, brought to life by Rebecca McDonald and Austin Bender, respectively. Fresh off their honeymoon, the couple has just moved into a tiny, fifth-floor walk-up apartment in New York City with a leaky skylight and a distinct lack of furniture. Corie is a free-spirited, adventurous romantic, while Paul is a more conservative, strait-laced lawyer. Their immediate plunge into domesticity, coupled with their wildly differing personalities, immediately puts their fresh marriage to the test in hilarious ways.

Adding to the comedic chaos, Corie embarks on a mission to set up her buttoned-up mother, played by Rebecca McDowell, with their eccentric, bohemian upstairs neighbor, Victor Velasco, portrayed by Craig Williams. The talented ensemble cast also includes Jonathan Stanley as the perpetually exasperated Telephone Repairman and Nick Banks as the Delivery Man, ensuring a stream of unexpected comedic twists.

Directing this delightful production is Kathy Rigby, who expressed her enthusiasm for the show. “Neil Simon had an unparalleled gift for finding the humor and heart in everyday situations, especially within the complexities of relationships,” Rigby stated. “*Barefoot in the Park* beautifully captures the push and pull of new love, the need for compromise, and the joy of embracing each other’s quirks. Our incredible cast has brought so much energy, warmth, and genuine comedic timing to these iconic characters. Audiences are in for a truly entertaining and relatable experience.”

Rebecca McDonald, embodying the effervescent Corie, added, “Corie is such a vibrant, optimistic character, and her enthusiasm for life is contagious. Playing opposite Austin’s Paul, with his more grounded perspective, creates such wonderful sparks and laughs. It’s a joy to explore their journey from newlywed bliss to figuring out what it truly means to be a couple.”

Don’t miss the opportunity to see why *Barefoot in the Park* has charmed generations of theatre-goers. Tickets are $28 and can be purchased by visiting the Owen Theatre box office, calling 936-532-7269, or conveniently online at owentheatre.com. Book your seats early for a guaranteed evening of classic Neil Simon humor.