(MANASQUAN, NJ) -- Algonquin Arts Theatre is delighted to open the new year with one of the most beloved romantic comedies of the American stage, Same Time, Next Year, running for six performances only from January 17-25, 2026.
Relive the charm of the iconic 1978 film starring Alan Alda and Ellen Burstyn in this heartfelt stage adaptation that has captivated audiences for decades. Same Time, Next Year follows the unexpected and enduring connection between Doris and George, who meet once a year for 25 years—sharing their triumphs, heartbreaks, personal growth, and the changing world around them. Filled with wit, tenderness, and laughter, this timeless two-hander remains as poignant and relatable today as when it first premiered.
"Our audiences are craving warmth, joy, and a reminder of the beautiful ways we connect with one another," said Pamela Ward, Executive Director of Algonquin Arts Theatre. "This delightful comedy is the perfect way to warm your heart this winter. Doris and George's story is funny, touching, and wonderfully human—exactly the kind of theatre experience we love bringing to our community."
The cast includes Michelle Conway (Doris) and Lex Friedman (George).
Tickets start at just $27 and are available now at www.algonquinarts.org, by calling 732-528-9211, or by visiting the Algonquin Arts Theatre Box Office (Monday–Saturday, 10:00am–4:00pm) at 60 Abe Voorhees Drive in Manasquan, New Jersey.
Same Time, Next Year is directed by Derek Hulse, with a creative team that includes Jason Greenhouse (Scenic Design), Emily Davis (Costume Design), Roman Klima (Lighting Design), Jan Topoleski (Sound Design), and Joe Ficarra (Prop Design). Stage management is provided by Jade Rogers and Adam von Pier. This production of Same Time, Next Year is proudly sponsored by Shorehaven Wealth Partners.
Michelle Conway is thrilled to make her Algonquin debut! Recent credits include The Drowsy Chaperone (Janet) and The Producers (Ulla). She was a featured soloist in Rent at the Count Basie Theatre and has appeared at New York City's iconic cabaret, Don't Tell Mama. Michelle studied Theatre and Television & Film at DeSales University and continues training with The Barrow Group in NYC.
Lex Friedman returns to the Algonquin stage, where previous favorite roles include Brian (Avenue Q), Paul (Misery), and Walter (Elf). He also performs comedic improv with ComedySportz in Ocean Grove. Beyond the stage, Lex runs the word-game website/app Lex.Games and writes and records music—both solo and with his son, under "Liam & Lex."
Algonquin Arts Theatre (AAT) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit center for performing arts, providing cultural enrichment and arts education for residents and visitors of Central New Jersey and the Jersey Shore through high-quality performances and programs in theatre, music, dance, and film.
Located in Manasquan, N.J., AAT is an integral part of the Shore region, offering broad access to arts experiences across multiple disciplines. Deeply committed to education, AAT serves students of all ages through instruction and through the unique conversation that exists between performer and audience.
Algonquin Arts Theatre's programs are made possible in part by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts / Department of State, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts. Funding is also provided by the PNC Foundation, New Jersey Cultural Trust, the Provident Bank Foundation, the Horizon Foundation for New Jersey, and the generosity of businesses and patrons.
