Overview
GRUMPY OLD MEN is a hilarious and heartwarming story about two aging neighbors, Max and John, who have spent most of their lives locked in a feud. When a beautiful, eccentric, and charming woman named Ariel moves in across the street, both men find themselves vying for her attention, turning their rivalry into a full-blown comedic battle of wills. As their antics escalate, the two grumpy old men are forced to confront their differences, leading to a touching resolution that proves even the most stubborn hearts can change.
Based on the beloved 1993 film starring Jack Lemmon, Walter Matthau, and Ann-Margret, this stage adaptation captures the lovably crotchety characters through twinkling humor, catchy songs, and the affectionate depiction of a small town that feels like home to everyone. GRUMPY OLD MEN is a delightful and affectionate celebration of love, friendship, and second chances.
Casting & Production
Casting
JOHN GUSTAFSON – Male, Age 70, retired history teacher
MAX GOLDMAN – Male, Age 71, his neighbor; retired TV repairman
ARIEL TRUAX – Female, Age 52, college professor; new in town
JACOB GOLDMAN – Male, Age 39, Max’s son; a lawyer
MELANIE NORTON – Female, Age 38, John’s daughter; a real estate agent
SANDRA SNYDER – Female, Age 40, nefarious tax collector
“GRANDPA” GUSTAFSON – Male, Age 94, John’s oversexed father
CHUCK BARRELS – Male, Age 69, owns the town’s general store
PUNKY BARRELS – Female, Age 55, Chuck’s niece; also new to town
Townspeople/Ensemble (3 women, 5 men)
HARRY the accident-prone postman delivers mail to
TIM the dubious minister who is married to
UNIS the avian addict while
STAN the polka champion is browbeaten by his wife
FRAN the town gossip
KARLA caffeinates all, including
BO and LO who appear as movers, orderlies and other random duos
The actor playing KARLA also portrays the NURSE.
Opportunities for featured casting in the ensemble.
Setting
Place
Wabasha, Minnesota. Winter.
Time
The present.
Orchestral Information
Keyboard 1-2
Reed 1-2
Trumpet
Trombone
Violin
Guitar
Bass
Drums
Credits
GRUMPY OLD MEN THE MUSICAL
Book by DAN REMMES
Music by NEIL BERG
Lyrics by NICK MEGLIN
Adapted from the Warner Bros. motion picture written by MARK STEVEN JOHNSON
Media
Authors
Upcoming Productions
Hot Springs Village Players
Hot Springs Village, AR
TheatreZone
Naples, FL
Washington Community Theater
Washington, IA
Resources
