A whole lot of people have stayed in Room 719 of the Plaza Hotel.

That's the room in which all three acts of Neil Simon's hit comedy "Plaza Suite" take place. Considering the play remains a standard for suburban theaters nationwide, it's likely tens of thousands of actors have portrayed the show's three couples since its 1968 Broadway debut.

That's enough to wear down the carpet and sag the springs of any play. But even though McKeesport Little Theater's current production of "Plaza Suite" may not offer the untouched luxury of its namesake, it's no freeway motel, either.

This show is more like a mansion turned into a bed-and-breakfast run by an older couple. The woodwork has a few scuffs, but you get a hot water bottle in your bed and a mint on your pillow.

Or, to put it another way: Despite some uneven performances and missed cues, the cast clearly connected with Simon's bittersweet humor and forged a strong connection with the audience. And those connections are worth more than a free mini-bar any day.

Act I stars Norm Wash and Cindy McGovern as Sam and Karen Nash, a couple facing some painful truths about their marriage. Mr. Wash managed to keep the irritable and adulterous Sam a likable character, which is no small feat.

This is Ms. McGovern's stage debut, and although she sometimes lost the thread of her character's emotional progress, she has a natural talent, especially for comedy. I expect to see much more of her on local stages.

Act II was the strongest, largely because of Point Park University graduate Kim Mathers, a gifted comedian. Her portrayal of star-struck housewife Muriel Tate was the highlight of the show. Adam Brandt, who played Hollywood-producer-on-the-make Jesse Kiplinger, seemed less emotionally agile but was certainly creepy enough.

Act III had the most problems, with Mary Randolph and Clyde Adams, as the quarrelling Norma and Roy Hubley, occasionally losing the flow of their scene. But their portrayals of hapless parents trying to get their daughter out of the bathroom on her wedding day were honest, affecting and funny.

Laura Palko was fine in several small parts, and Ryan Baker was appealing as the bellboy/waiter. Set designer Ryan Tierno made the most of McKeesport's small stage, with a nicely functional hotel room.

Director Erik Flores has said he takes the collaborative approach to his job. Even so, he deserves credit for insightful casting and for getting the most out of his performers. One of the best things about this "Plaza Suite," McKeesport's last show this season, is how natural all three couples appeared to be with each other.

"Plaza Suite" continues through Sunday at the theater, 1614 Coursin St., McKeesport. For more information, call 412-673-1100 or go to mckeesportlittletheater.com.