AMP to kick off ‘26 with Neil Simon comedy
The Albany Mainstreet Playhouse will bring back a familiar favorite next month with its production of God’s Favorite, a comedy by Neil Simon inspired by the biblical story of Job, with performances scheduled for February 6, 7 and 8.
This marks the second Neil Simon production for AMP in less than a year, following last winter’s presentation of Rumors. The play was last staged locally in 2010 and was well received, prompting director Lorna Ayers to bring it back more than 16 years later with a largely new cast.
Jeff Davis returns to the AMP stage in the lead role of Joe Benjamin, while fellow returning cast member Kolby Tinkle will portray Sidney Lipton, a role Davis previously played in 2010. AMP veterans Ragan Riley and Keren Liming join the cast as Rose Benjamin and Mady, the family’s house servant, respectively. Newcomers to AMP this year include Emma Smith and Parker Rose as twins Sarah and Ben Benjamin, along with David Waller making his AMP debut in the role of David Benjamin.
Ayers said the show’s appeal comes from both its humor and its heart.
“Even though it is small-town theater, you would be very surprised at the quality of this production, and the venue is outstanding as well,” Ayers said. “This is not your typical community theater. We are definitely a cut above.”
The production crew includes Nickie Leveridge, Jenny Scott handling lighting, and Wade Jones, with Tony and Paul Hensley assisting with set construction. The show is underwritten by the C.E. Jacobs Foundation.
Tickets are already selling quickly, with several out-of-town groups reserving seats. Tickets are available online at albanyplayhouse.com/shows or at the door. Seating is general admission.
While God’s Favorite is considered suitable for most audiences, Ayers noted that the humor and themes are better suited for teenagers and adults rather than very young children.
The opening weekend will also coincide with the Old Jail Art Center’s debut of a new exhibit, and AMP and the OJAC are planning a collaborative effort to make it a special weekend for the community. More details on that partnership are expected soon.
Albany Mainstreet Playhouse is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. For more information, AMP can be reached at albanymainstreetplayhouse@gmail.com.
