Pullman Civic Theater opens first show of the season

PULLMAN, WASH – For cast members at Pullman Civic Theater, meeting new people and building relationships are highlights of putting on a production. 

“It’s not like a team sport where you’re competing,” cast member Karena Gutierrez said. “But it is definitely a team effort.”

The chemistry between the cast has only grown as their first play of the season, “The Odd Couple,” opens Thursday. To prepare, they rehearsed four times a week for about three hours, said Mike Long, PCT producer and assistant show director. 

“The Odd Couple” is a show that revolves around the aftermath of a divorce. Gutierrez said the show’s themes are most likely relatable to some audience members. 

“Knowing that it is something that a lot of people go through and it can be painful,” she said. “But I think theater does a good job bringing laughter to painful things.”

Show director Matt Maw said he is proud of the progress the case made over rehearsals and that they developed a kind of connection that allowed the show to develop an organic feeling to it. 

For some cast members, Maw said this is their first play in many years. 

“That’s always a lot of fun to bring all those people together and give them an equal opportunity to engage with the character and engage with the script,” he said. 

“The Odd Couple” is running through March 6. Masks and proof of vaccination against COVID-19 are required for entrance, Long said.