Chalke and Foster replaced Gretchen Egolf and J. Anthony Crane in the cast of Daniel Goldfarb's Off-Broadway comedy Modern Orthodox on April 12. Chalke plays the role originated by Molly Ringwald and Foster fills the part created by Craig Bierko. The production began previews Nov. 11, 2004. Jenn Harris and Jason Biggs were also in the original cast of the play, which concerns the impact a "lovable schmuck" Hershel Klein has on a young Jewish couple of lapsed faith.

Harris is still with the cast. Fiddler on the Roof's John Cariani assumed the Biggs role on March 15.

The six-month run is far longer than what many observers expected for the show. Soon after opening to mixed reviews, the comedy slowly proved itself popular with audiences. The half-year stay makes its playwright Goldfarb's most successful effort to date.

Goldfarb has also written Adam Baum and the Jew Movie, which won the 2000 New York Newsday Oppenheimer Award. Goldfarb's Sarah, Sarah was presented at the Manhattan Theatre Club this past spring. Modern Orthodox has been seen at Long Wharf Theatre, where it had its world premiere.