The Roommate: A Modern Take on The Odd CoupleSince Jen Silverman wrote The Roommate in 2015 to address the shortage of roles for women in their 50s, many stages across the country have presented this comedic yet heartwarming play. Currently, the New York City Booth Theatre is hosting this acclaimed production. Mia Farrow stars as Sharon, and Patti LuPone takes on the role of Robyn. This modern version of The Odd Couple is replete with contemporary comedy and is funny from start to finish.Mia Farrow as Sharon, Patti LuPone as RobynSharon, a divorced mother stuck in the doldrums of life in Iowa, continuously leaves phone messages for her son. He lives in New York and wants nothing to do with her. Sharon places an ad for a roommate, hoping for some companionship. Robyn, hailing from the Bronx, responds to the ad. She’s not the kind of person one might expect in the desolate cornfields of mid-America. Mia Farrow. Photo by David Shankbone, CC BY 3.0 , via Wikimedia CommonsWhen Robyn arrives, dressed in tight black pants and a leather jacket, Sharon is quick with questions. Sharon, in her curiosity, discovers that Robyn is gay. She responds with, “I think most New Yorkers are.” This line brought a genuine chuckle to the audience. Robyn’s dark past begins to amaze Sharon. Robyn admits to past involvement in scams, multiple IDs, and drug sales. Sharon, shocked, asks, “Are you the Nigerians?”Good Versus Bad: A Fascinating DynamicThese two mismatched characters quickly become the epitome of a good girl and a bad girl. Sharon gradually becomes obsessed with Robyn’s past, sliding into the abyss herself. Robyn, on the other hand, is trying to escape her old life. She wants to reform and reveals that she has a daughter who has also disowned her. We are left to wonder if Sharon and Robyn can recover after embracing the bad. Patti Lupone. 2018 - London. Lockdown. 2021. New York City. Courtesy pattilupone.netIt’s lovely to watch two dissimilar characters play off each other. Even if some of the dialogue is predictable, the humor is undeniable. The audience roared with laughter after most lines. Sharon and Robyn’s struggles are a common problem for post-divorce and older women. The play tackles themes of modern morality and loneliness with grace.Themes of Loneliness and RedemptionSilverman presents these themes in an affable way, showing the internal conflict many face. Often, we imagine a better life for ourselves. Yet, when we finally reach it, we struggle with what we get—or don’t get.It’s inspiring to see Farrow and LuPone together on stage. Both are legendary in their own right. Hopefully, they will collaborate again in the future. The Roommate. Photo by Victoria DammerThe RoommateThe Roommate, written by Jen Silverman and directed by Jack O'Brien, stars Mia Farrow and Patti LuPone.It is now playing through December 15th at the Booth Theatre.If you loved diving into the world of The Roommate, you’ll be captivated by our other in-depth theater reviews. Discover more behind-the-scenes insights, standout performances, and must-see productions. Don’t miss out—explore our latest reviews and recommendations HERE for your next unforgettable theater experience!https://youtu.be/K6iHv0tYLAQ?si=Km3MbQON8kOykMDm