The play doesn’t require a lot of work because it is so well written, he said. The characters are logical and real, which makes it easy for the actors.

David Zarbock, an actor from Illinois State University who is playing Uncle Louie, said he was interested in coming here this summer because of the reputation of SIUC.

This is a great summer season, he said. I especially love this play.

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Zarbock said even though there is usually a comparison between plays and the movies made after them, it is important to create a new role that is individual.

Any actor who said they don’t steal little pieces of parts is lying, he said. But it is still important to try and be different.

The part that has proven to be one of the hardest to play is that of the grandmother, with her accent and the hardness of her personality. Ellen Dillion, who plays the part, said she can relate to the part, and that has made it easier for her.

It is a very challenging part to play, she said. But Simon, with his writing, and my relation to the part has made it helpful in preparing for the part.