An homage to Neil Simon's early days working as a jokesman for Sid Ceaser's "Your Show of Shows April 15, 16, 22, 23, 29, 30 May 6, 7 at 8:15 p.m. April 24 and May 1 at 2:30 p.m. Admission is $15 ($12 for students and seniors 60+) Reservations are required. Please call (732) 291-9211.

Marking the final offering of their Fifty-first season, Monmouth Players is proud to present Neil Simon's Laughter On The 23rd Floor. This Broadway hit is a homage to the author's early days in show biz, writing for Sid Caesar's Your Show of Shows. The rapid comic pace of this Broadway hit underscores the serious tones of McCarthyism, the Cold War, and censorship. Although the action takes place in 1953, it is remarkably relevant in America today as the nation struggles with an enemy overseas and the scope of The Patriot Act.

The play is a memoir told by Mr. Simon's alter ego, Lucas (Kevin Vislocky - Washington Township). This collection of the looniest comedy writers ever include characters based on Mel Tolkin, Larry Gelbart, Mel Brooks, Sheldon Keller, Lucille Kallen, and Tony Webster. The audience watches the antics of the wise cracking Milt (Fortunato Seveninni - Wanamassa), the Head Writer Val (Keith Sampino - Old Bridge), the "boy wonder" Kenny (Meena Dimian - Old Bridge), the hard living Brian (John Reno - Asbury Park), the group's only woman writer Carol (Lipica Shah - Clarksburg), and the hypochondriac, Ira (Bill King - Neptune), right along with Lucas.

The writers struggle to please their boss and the star of the show, Max Prince (Bill Rogers - Woodbridge). Prince is at once brilliant and mad, driven to the edge by the network. Max is furious that the brass at NBC finds the humor of his show too sophisticated, and horrified that the network is contemplating cutting the show to one hour. He lashes out at everyone, including his faithful secretary Helen (Jennifer Lauren Scott - Middletown).

Join the Monmouth Players at The Navesink Library Theater, located on the corner of Sears and Monmouth Avenues, in the Navesink section of Middletown to witness the struggle first hand. The show dates are April 15, 16 (limited seating), 22 (sold out) 23, 29, 30, and May 6 and 7 at 8:15 PM, and April 24 and May 1 at 2:30 PM. Reservations are required and can be made by dialing (732) 291-9211. Homemade desserts are available and the works of local artist are featured. Additional information and directions are available at the listed number, and groups are gladly accepted.