"The Prisoner of Second Avenue -- Reviewed!

Montgomery Theater's latest production, "The Prisoner of Second Avenue," opened this past weekend. Audience reaction has been highly favorable although many recognize themselves or loved ones in the plight of our main character, Mel Edison. The fact that "The Prisoner of Second Avenue" can still resound with authenticity 40 years after its premiere is, I believe, a testament to both Simon's writing and to this cast's prowess on stage. Erica Moser, an intern with Montgomery Media's TICKET section, seems to agree with my assessment.

She begins her review with the following:

What happens when you take the biting reality of unemployment and turn the formidable situation into a comic one? You get Neil Simon’s play “The Prisoner of Second Avenue,” which will run at Montgomery Theater from June 23 to July 16.

The show centers on Mel Edison (portrayed by Tony Braithwaite), a well-off executive who is let go when his firm goes under. As he deals with this unnerving event, along with the sweltering summer heat and the fear of robbers, he undergoes a breakdown.

Director Tom Quinn says, “The whole pressure of the economic decline has taken him towards the path to craziness.”

And somehow, this is a comedy.

Read the full review: This ‘Prisoner’ still relevant 40 years later: Montgomery Theater mounts Neil Simon’s serious comedy - Entertainment - Montgomery News

“Prisoner of Second Avenue”

continues through July 16 at Montgomery Theater

124 Main St.

Souderton, PA 18964,

Tickets: $22 – $35.

Info: 215-723-9984 or

www.montgomerytheater.org.