The “Ichneftes” Theater Company in collaboration with the Archdiocesan Hellenic Cultural Center is presenting the hilarious comedy “3Penny Youth,” written by the masters Asimakis Yalamas and Kostas Pretenteris. Directed by Martha Tompoulidou, this play is one of the best Modern Greek comedies. Funny dialogue, hysterical transformations, unexpected situations and innocent truth are some of the brilliant and unique components that have made the play a huge success as much on stage as on film during the Golden Era of the Greek Cinema.

A poor, newly wed couple, Irene and George, are struggling to build their own house with a loan. George’s salary is not enough but he’s so jealous and “traditional” in some respect that he does not let his wife work and help him financially. Under totally unforeseen circumstances, Irene finds herself hired as a secretary to the owner of the business her husband works for, as she is presumed single; the flirtatious young boss has a special preference to single women. From that point on Irene stands in the middle of a “Don Juan” boss, an “Othello” husband and a contractor that threatens to take their house from them if they do not pay their installments on time. A series of hilarious misunderstandings and unexpected developments take place until everything clears and all characters get their own lesson in life.

The production of “3Penny Youth” is a result of a strong, collaborative ensemble of ten professional actors. The music is a vital part of the show and is composed by the late virtuoso bouzouki player and composer Giorgos Zampetas. There will be a surprising combination of live performances and projected black and white footage with music.

The play’s Director Martha Tompoulidou was born in Thessaloniki where she graduated from the Aristotle University with a degree in Greek Literature. She also graduated from the Athens School of Drama of G. Theodosiades. As an actress – “distinguished at every appearance for her supremely refined technique, unique ability to immerse in characters and potential for highest pitch sensibility” - she worked with the National Theatre of Greece in Ancient Drama Productions (world tour), the Free Theater in Modern Repertoire, in Concerts with the baritone Anastassis Christoyannis and in Musicals. Having won a Fulbright scholarship, Martha came to NY where she took acting, dancing and singing classes in HB Studio and the Broadway Dance Center. Here she has collaborated with the Greek Cultural Center, Theatron Inc., Resonance Ensemble Theatre and the Federation of Hellenic Societies of NY. She also worked as a Radio Producer at The Hellas FM Station (“I have something to tell you”) and as a contributing writer for the Greek News newspaper.

Actors Antonis Armeftis, Eva Galani, John Kallianiotis, Anthoula Katsimatides, Theodora Loukas, Diodoros Pagoudis, Manos Pantelidis, Christiana Papadaki, Alkis Sarantinos, Stephanos Stephanou are taking part in the play, scheduled to start February 13 and last until March 22. Performances will take place at the Archdiocesan Hellenic Cultural Center (27-09 Crescent Street, Astoria, NY) Fridays and Saturdays 8:00 p.m. and Sundays both at 3:00 and 7:00 p.m. For reservations call: (718)626-5111.

The Hellenic Cultural Center was established in 1986 with the aim of cultivating the beautiful customs and culture of Greece. When it opened its doors for a variety of lectures, performances, exhibits and cultural gatherings, it fulfilled a dream of the late Archbishop Iakovos and its founders. The Theater has over 200 comfortable tilt back chairs and a professional stage. After each event, people gather in the Hall to talk and enjoy the paintings, drawings, sculptures and other works of art exhibited on its walls. The Hall is also used for meetings and social events.