Playwright Neil Simon recently decided there was something his fabulously popular 1965 comedy The Odd Couple needed desperately — updating. The Geffen Playhouse in Los Angeles will present the world premiere of this new version, Oscar and Felix: A New Look at The Odd Couple, June 19-July 21.

Simon told the Los Angeles Times March 26 that about 70 percent of the dialogue of The Odd Couple had been rewritten for the production. The plot, which centers on a slob and a neat-freak who move into the same apartment after they each get divorced, will stay the same.

Simon already revisted The Odd Couple once in 1986's female version. He is also the author of Brighton Beach Memoirs, Biloxi Blues, Broadway Bound and Lost in Yonkers. 45 Seconds from Broadway was his most recent Broadway entry.

Tickets are $30-$46. The Geffen Playhouse is at 10886 Le Conte Avenue in Westwood, CA. The Geffen Playhouse is on the web at http://www.geffenplayhouse.com.

— By Christine Ehren