Fans of the now-defunct Kroll Show generally agree that its high point was the recurring sketch “Oh, Hello,” featuring the confused, obnoxious, (and slightly icky) pair of Upper West Side elderly bachelors, Gil Faizon and George St. Geegland. Creators Nick Kroll (Faizon) and John Mulaney (St. Geegland) were also endeared to the out-of-touch pranksters, and since the end of Kroll Show, Oh, Hello has lived on as its own entity.
After successfully pulling off a tour and off-Broadway run, the two gents (presumably against the advice of Faizon’s physician) were kicked upstairs, with Oh, Hello On Broadway. This past Monday the curtain came up on the show, and according to Vulture, the pair celebrated their debut by praise-heckling V.I.P. guest Alan Alda, before inviting him on stage to enjoy a simple seafood meal. While the involvement of Alda might seem like a strange selection, Oh, Hello fans know that the actor plays a larger-than-life role in the lives of Faizon and St. Geegland. Kroll and Mulaney originally conceived of their characters after observing a pair of older gentleman poring over copies of Alda’s autobiography.
Flash-forward to opening night, and Alda enjoyed a front-and-center seat to the performance. Both characters referenced Alda and his work repeatedly, with the actor reportedly laughing good-naturedly from the audience. The pair then invited their idol on stage for what has now become a ritual of the Oh, Hello routine, the roasting of the guest and the serving of too much tuna. Alda was clearly game, probably prepared, and easily exchanged quips and zingers with his elderly company. The show concluded with the ceremonial presentation of the overstuffed tuna sandwich. Fulfilling his duty as guest, Alda declared, “I don’t want to put too fine a point on it, but this is too much fucking tuna.”
Oh, Hello On Broadway is playing by limited engagement now through January 8. You can learn more and order tickets on their website.