Sophie tries to dissuade Norman from his feelings in Star Spangled Girl at the Butler Little Theatre. From left: Alec Lamascola, Molly Miller and Sam Thinnes. Michael Dittman/Photo provided

The concept that love blooms in the most unexpected places is an old one — even Shakespeare drew on it in his comedies.

The current production of “Star Spangled Girl” at the Butler Little Theatre, directed by Laura Crago, takes the idea of ​​opposites attract and turns it into a funny look at a bygone era. The show features a charming cast that successfully elevates Neil Simon’s somewhat tired script.

The play centers around an eccentric love triangle: Normal Cornell (Alec Lamascola) and his friend Andy Hobart (Sam Thinnes) run a struggling leftist magazine in San Francisco during the height of the radical era of the 1960s. Their lives take a comedic turn when the temperamental, idealistic, and politically conservative Sophie Rauschmeyer (Molly Miller) moves in next door, igniting romantic tensions between the three and straining the men’s bond of friendship.

As the characters grapple with misunderstandings and the oddities of relationships, the dialogue sparks with wit, though some of the references — such as to Look magazine and a Howard Johnson’s restaurant — may leave younger audiences puzzled.

The two-hour show with a 15-minute intermission flows smoothly, largely thanks to the comedic approach of the actors.

Lamascola and Thinnes shine as the awkward duo, delivering a series of hilarious blunders and a sense of timing that pays homage to classic screwball comedies like “It Happened One Night.” The duo’s chemistry is palpable, and the actors balance each other out perfectly, with Thinnes bringing a charming, college-age enthusiasm to the role, while Lamascola, with a background in dance shows, brings a laid-back physicality to the character.

Miller stands out as Sophie, giving her character a blend of innocence and determination. Her performance lights up the stage during scenes where she struggles with the behavior of other characters, proving she can hold her own in this male-dominated world. Miller’s expressive reactions and perfect Georgia accent add an extra layer of humor, making her the heart of the production.

The set design captures the 1960s, with vintage décor and whimsical touches that evoke simpler times. The rotary dial telephone (which is a character in itself, with the Hobart character constantly using it to avoid creditors and arrange dates with the wealthy widow he dates) and retro furnishings not only add to the visual appeal, but also serve as a reminder of a world that seems strange today.

The set and props are a clever nod to the past that complements the play’s themes, inviting audiences to reflect on how far we’ve come—while also highlighting what once was. The talent of the cast and Crago’s direction create a charming atmosphere that keeps audiences smiling throughout this engaging evening of theater. For those looking for a nostalgic time-travel experience with plenty of laughs, BLT’s “Star Spangled Girl” is not to be missed.