Laughter Takes Center Stage With WCTG’s ‘The Odd Couple’ (Female Version)

Special to the Neighborhood News 

The cast of the Wesley Chapel Theater Group’s “The Odd Couple (Female Version) includes (seated, l.-r.) Jacob Guardado, Samantha Grahn, Allison Duque, Mackenzie Elliott, Jay Davis (standing, l.-r.) Janine Quarles Adkins, Leanne Green & Kelsey Mars. (Photos provided by Wesley Chapel Theater Group)

The familiar story of mismatched roommates gets a fresh perspective the weekend of October 17-18 when the Wesley Chapel Theater Group presents Neil Simon’s “The Odd Couple” (Female Version), directed by David Sparano. 

The female version of Simon’s comedy follows Florence Unger and Olive Madison, two women whose personalities and approaches to everyday life could hardly be more different. When Florence, recently separated from her husband, moves in with Olive, the contrast between the meticulous Florence and the carefree Olive quickly leads to a series of hilarious situations. 

The directors of “The Odd Couple” include assistant director Aline Huttie (left), director David Sparano (right) & stage manager Angelica Chirino (not pictured).

As their friendship is tested by the realities of sharing a home, audiences are treated to Simon’s trademark combination of sharp dialogue, memorable characters, and everyday situations that can turn into anything but ordinary. 

The local production features Samantha Grahn as Olive Madison and Allison Duque as Florence Unger, with Janine Quarles Adkins as Mickey, Kelsey Mars as Sylvie, Mackenzie Elliott as Renee, and Leanne Green as Vera. Rounding out the cast are Jacob Guardado as Manolo Costazuela and Jay Davis as Manolo’s brother Jesus Costazuela. 

While “The Odd Couple” (Female Version) is filled with laughs, the story also explores the importance of friendship and the unexpected ways people can become part of one another’s lives. The result is a comedy that remains relatable decades after Simon first introduced audiences to the world of “The Odd Couple.” 

The Wesley Chapel Theater Group, a local nonprofit community theater troupe, continues its mission of bringing live performing arts to the community through productions featuring local performers and volunteers. Each production is made possible through the combined efforts of actors, directors, backstage crews and community supporters. 

The production of “The Odd Couple” (Female Version) will take the stage at the Zephyrhills Lions Club (5827 Dean Dairy Rd., Zephyrhills 33541). Performances are scheduled for Saturday, October 17, at 7 p.m., and Sunday, October 18, at 2 p.m. 

Tickets cost $20 for general admission and $15 for students and seniors and are available online at WesleyChapelTheaterGroup.org. For additional information, scan the QR code in the ad below or visit WesleyChapelTheaterGroup.org.

Check Out The Wesley Chapel Theater Group’s 2nd Annual ‘One-Act Festival!’

Submitted to the Neighborhood News 

A scene from “Zoe’s Party” by Lois Findlay. (Photos provided by Wesley Chapel Theater Group)

What do an elephant in a train station, a Beanie Baby, an unexpected visitor, a Florida hurricane and a grown man who believes in Santa Claus all have in common? They’re all integral parts of the Wesley Chapel Theater Group (WCTG)’s second annual One-Act Festival — Seven plays. Seven stories. One unforgettable afternoon of theater. 

This year’s One-Act Festival features seven original short plays by talented Florida playwrights. Directed and performed by local artists, this unique collection showcases some of the most creative original storytelling that can be found throughout our state. 

Audiences will enjoy an eclectic mix of both comedy and drama, with each 10-minute play offering a one-of-a-kind story. With everything from laugh-out-loud moments to heartfelt, thought-provoking scenes, this year’s One-Act Festival is sure to have something for everyone. It is a celebration of new works, local voices and the power of live theater to entertain, inspire and connect communities. 

A scene from “On the Likelihood of Elephants” by Brian S. Brijbag, Esq.

This year, WCTG took in more than 50 play submissions. 

“Narrowing it down to seven shows was not easy,” says WCTG spokesperson Samantha Grahn. “We feel that we have an exceptional lineup. We are especially excited to welcome back playwrights Jessica Burchfield and Keith Whalen, whose works were featured in last year’s production. This collection of shows explores themes of family, enduring friendship and the moments that remind us not to take ourselves too seriously. It is truly a festival you won’t want to miss!” 

This year’s Featured One-Act Plays include: 

‱ “Twelve Books” by Philip Middleton Williams 

‱ “Finding Help” by Marj O’Neill-Butler 

‱ “Zoe’s Party” by Lois Findlay 

‱ “On the Likelihood of Elephants” by Brian S. Brijbag, Esq. 

‱ “Priceless” by Samara Siskind 

‱ “Non-Weight Bearing” by Jessica Burchfield 

‱ “Coming to Town” by Keith Whalen 

Both performances of the 2026 “One Act Festival” will be held at the Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center, located at 12118 Lake Blanche Dr., Odessa — on Saturday, July 18 & Sunday, July 19, both at 2 p.m. Tickets, which cost $15 for students and seniors and $20 for general admission, may be purchased at WesleyChapelTheaterGroup.org. 

For additional information, scan the QR code in the advertisement below or visit WesleyChapelTheaterGroup.org. 

The Wesley Chapel Theater Group Presents Musical Parody ‘ICON: Auditions’

Special to the Neighborhood News 

Do you love singing competitions like “American Idol,” “The Voice” and “Star Search?” Then don’t miss the Wesley Chapel Theater Group’s upcoming production of “ICON: Auditions,” a laugh-out-loud musical parody show that brings the drama, talent and chaos of televised competitions to the local stage — Saturday & Sunday, March 28-29, at the Zephyrhills Lions Club. 

Inspired by the golden age of reality singing competitions, “ICON: Auditions” playfully captures everything we secretly love: unforgettable auditions, emotional back stories, shocking talent (and lack thereof ), a twist ending and, of course, the over-the-top drama. 

At the center are three distinct judges (above): a fame-seeking Soundcloud rapper, a former child star chasing love and a brutally honest critic who isn’t afraid to shatter anyone’s dream. Facing them are twelve colorful contestants, each vying to become the next big pop icon. From shy crooners to bold divas, and from comeback hopefuls to hilariously questionable auditioners, the stage is filled with big personalities and even bigger performances. 

And, here’s the twist: this isn’t just a show you watch — it’s a show you control. 

As the competition narrows, the audience votes live to decide which three finalists advance and ultimately earn ICON status. Each performance becomes a one-of-a-kind experience shaped by the crowd, making every show uniquely unpredictable. 

The musical features recognizable radio hits spanning genres and generations, making it a crowd-pleaser for teens, adults and families alike. Whether you enjoy powerhouse ballads, pop anthems, or feel-good classics, there’s something in “ICON: Auditions” that will have you tapping your feet, dancing and maybe even singing along. 

The Wesley Chapel Theater Group continues its tradition of showcasing incredible local talent while creating unforgettable community experiences, and “ICON: Auditions” may be its boldest concept yet. From performers and directors to stage crew and volunteers, the show represents months of dedication and collaboration. It’s a testament to the thriving arts scene right here in Wesley Chapel. 

Performances will be at the Zephyrhills Lions Club (5827 Dean Dairy Rd.), on Saturday, March 28, 7 p.m., and Sunday, March 29, 2:30 p.m. Tickets cost $20 and can be purchased at WesleyChapelTheaterGroup.org. 

For more info, scan the QR code on the ad below or visit WesleyChapelTheaterGroup.org. 

WCTG Presents A “One-Act (Play) Festival” 

Theater lovers: mark your calendars for an afternoon of creativity, laughter, and powerful storytelling! The Wesley Chapel Theater Group (WCTG) is proud to present its “One-Act (Play) Festival” on Saturday & Sunday, July 12-13, 2 p.m., both days. The Festival will be a vibrant celebration of local talent that brings original one-act plays to life on stage. 

This exciting event showcases the power of community-driven art, featuring short plays that have been written and will be directed and performed entirely by local artists. From heartfelt dramas to witty comedies, each one-act play promises a unique and captivating experience, all within a single afternoon. 

The Festival performances will be held at the Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center (12118 Lake Blanche Dr., in nearby Odessa). The doors will open at 1:40 p.m. both days, so arrive early to grab your seat and settle in for a memorable ride through the imaginations of our hometown playwrights. 

“This festival is all about celebrating the incredible talent we have right here in our own backyard,” says WCTG Board member Samantha Grahn. “We’re giving local voices the spotlight and inviting the community to come together to laugh, feel and be inspired.” 

Whether you’re a seasoned theatergoer or new to the stage, this is the perfect opportunity to support local artists, enjoy original performances and be part of something truly special. Gather your friends, grab your tickets and get ready to be swept away by the magic of live theater! 

Featured Plays At WCTG’s ‘One-Act Festival’: 

“A Rainy Night in Hollywood,” by Tom Erb 

“ClichĂ©,” by Keith Whalen 

“Three Years,” by WCTG’s Samantha Sacasa 

“Full Frontal Transparency,” by Jenna Jane 

“The Oatmeal,” by Robert Grogan 

“Love, Lost (Rings) & What We Wore,” by Jessica Burchfield 

Tickets to WCTG’s “One-Act Festival” cost just $25 and can be purchased online at Simpletix.com/e/wctg-presents-one-act-festival-2025-tickets-218617. For more information, follow “Wesley Chapel Theater Group” on social media, visit WesleyChapelTheaterGroup.org. — Submitted to the Neighborhood News 

Chamber Breakfast Highlights Nonprofits! 

The North Tampa Bay Chamber continues to provide unique opportunities for its member businesses — and even the NTBC’s nonprofit business members also get their respective moments in the sun. 

At the Chamber’s Business Breakfast at Pasco Hernando State College’s Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch on June 2, more than 100 attendees were treated to a roundtable featuring four NTBC-member nonprofit organizations — (seated l.-r. in top photo) The Thomas Promise Foundation (TheThomasPromise.org), the PTSD Foundation of America (PTSDUSA.org), the Wesley Chapel Theater Group (WesleyChapelTheaterGroup.org) and Pepin Academies (PepinAcademies.com). 

The roundtable — which gave representatives from each nonprofit the chance to introduce themselves and their respective needs to the Chamber members — was hosted by NTBC Board member Chuck Sullivan (standing in top photo) of the law firm McFarland, Gould, Lyons, Sullivan & Hogan, P.A., and was the brainchild of NTBC Board chair Angelique Lenox, who promised that the Chamber will host more such events for nonprofits in the future. For more info, call (813) 994-8534 or visit NorthTampaBayChamber.com/Events. — GNÂ