One Mann's Opinion: Laughter on the 23rd Floor at Desert Theatre Works

In a recent review for NBC Palm Springs, Kevin Mann takes us to Desert Theatre Works in Indio for their production of Neil Simon’s "Laughter on the 23rd Floor." A semi-autobiographical tribute to Simon’s early days writing for Sid Caesar’s Your Show of Shows, the play captures the frantic, neurotic brilliance of the 1950s "Golden Age" of television.

Mann, who has personal experience working with this troupe, praises the production as the "epitome of community theater." He emphasizes that the cast’s genuine chemistry makes the ensemble work; you truly believe these characters love each other despite their constant bickering.

Performance and Production Highlights

• The Cast: Bryce Izurrieta serves as the show’s warm emotional center, while Sheldon Safir commands the stage as the kooky Max Prince. Notable mentions include Willie Eide’s impeccable comic timing as Milt and Lee Rice’s standout Act 2 rant.

• The Design: The 1950s office setting, designed by Lance Phillip, is immersive, complemented by Georgina Medina’s "lived-in" period costumes.

• The Direction: Tanner Lieser successfully balances the high-energy comedy with the script's more grounded, dramatic undertones.

While Mann noted some opening-night pacing issues in the first act, he found the second act significantly brighter and more cohesive. He also warns sensitive viewers about the heavy use of adult language, though he notes it feels authentic to the setting.

Ultimately, the show is a timely exploration of political tension and the evolution of broadcast media. Between the sharp Neil Simon wit and the infectious passion of the local performers, Mann highly recommends catching this production on the main stage.