DEXTER, MI–I’m Not Rappaport is a poignant theatrical journey that explores the depths of friendship, aging, and the enduring human spirit. Written by Herb Gardner, this Tony Award-winning play, presented through April 21, captivates audiences with its blend of humor, wisdom, and touching moments.

Set in Central Park, 1982, the play follows the unlikely friendship between Nat, a cantankerous octogenarian (Fred Grandy), and Midge, a feisty yet vulnerable man in his 60s (Ted Lange). Despite their stark differences in age and temperament, the duo forms a bond rooted in shared experiences and a mutual desire to navigate life’s challenges on their own terms.

At the heart of I’m Not Rappaport lies the dynamic performances of its two leads. Grandy’s Nat is a force of nature, wielding sharp wit and a rebellious spirit as his weapons against the encroaching realities of old age. Lange brings depth and vulnerability to the role of Midge, serving as the perfect foil to Nat’s larger-than-life personality. Together, they create a captivating onstage chemistry that keeps the audience engaged in their story.

The play’s narrative unfolds through a series of encounters between Nat, Midge, and a colorful cast of supporting characters who frequent the park. From “Cowboy” (Jerry Jarvis), the rough, soulless drug dealer, to Laurie (Logan Saad), the desperate user, each character adds layers of complexity to the story, shedding light on themes of loneliness, resilience, and the enduring power of human connection. Clara, Nat’s daughter who is concerned about the safety and welfare of her aging father, is played by Jill Whelan.

Director Vince Cardinal expertly navigates the play’s shifting tones, seamlessly blending moments of laughter with poignant reflections on life, love, and loss. The production’s set design, by Sarah Tanner, is a beautifully done representation of a corner of New York City’s Central Park with two benches that have seen a legion of souls just like Nat and Midge over the decades. Evocative lighting, by Joseph R. Walls and sound by Chris Goosman, draws the audience into the characters’ world, allowing them to experience the highs and lows of Nat and Midge’s journey firsthand. Marli Henderson’s costumes are exactly right for this story, especially with the two principal players. Anne Donevan is prop designer.

One might think the cast of Grandy, Lange and Whelan, who co-starred together many years ago in the TV series “The Love Boat,” is a gimmick. In fact, all three, in addition to the supporting players, are top-flight actors and work together extremely well, and they have chosen a play that suits their ages and talents. This kind of reunion, bringing actors linked by a past success together for a new production, is far preferable to the often sad, pathetic reboots of past TV series, such as those attempted with Roseanne in 2018 or the dreary current attempt to revive Frasier. We’ve seen Grandy, a superb actor, come through Dexter’s Encore Musical Theatre before with a one-man show about Harry Truman, Give ‘Em Hell Harry. We hope he makes it a regular thing. Lange and Whelan, too, deliver solidly on their roles.

I’m Not Rappaport is more than just a play; it’s a celebration of the human spirit in all its messy, beautiful glory. As Nat and Midge confront the challenges of aging, their friendship serves as a reminder that no matter how old we grow, we never outgrow the need for companionship, understanding, and a good laugh along the way.

Seeing the actors from a hit TV series (1977-1987) may be the reason some patrons buy their tickets. But what they get is a terrific play, powerfully performed by a team of real pros who are also friends. Whether you’re young or young at heart, this timeless tale of friendship and resilience is sure to touch your soul and leave you feeling inspired.

I’m Not Rappaport plays through April 21, so just one more weekend. For tickets and showtimes, go to the theater’s website, https://theencoretheatre.org/event/im-not-rappaport/ .