Director Janet Mitchko, calls it a heartwarming comedy that takes a thoughtful, honest look at the transformative power of love.

“It puts teenage-style crushes in the hearts of people over 60, and reminds us that love happens at every age,” she said.

The lead roles are played by JP Benjamin and Louisa Flaningam, real-life husband and wife, each of whom has extensive stage credits. Benjamin, who is celebrating his 43rd year as a professional actor, has spent the last five years portraying the Wizard in Broadway’s smash hit, “Wicked.”

Flaningam has appeared in numerous Broadway roles including the 1979 revival of “The Most Happy Fella,” also telecast on PBS, and the 1992 revival of “Guys and Dolls.” She will be remembered for her appearance several years ago on The Public Theatre (TPT) stage in the record-breaking production of “Southern Comforts.”

In “The Last Romance,” Benjamin plays widower Ralph Bellini. His life has become filled with routine, but it takes on new energy when he spots a lovely and intriguing lady in a dog park. Flaningam plays Carol Reynolds, the target of Ralph’s amorous attention. Ralph is no ordinary suitor. Using a few operatic arias and a bar or two of rap music, he puts his heart on his sleeve and leaps headfirst into a last chance at romance.

Ralph’s new-found thrill is tempered by complications from his protective Italian sister, Rose, played by Andrea Gallo. She appeared at TPT most recently in “The Language Archive” and she was one of the grandmothers in “Over the River and Through the Woods” by Joe DiPietro.

“The Last Romance” is DiPietro’s newest comedy. He also wrote the popular musical revue “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change.” Although “The Last Romance” is not a musical, it is peppered with songs from various operas that will be sung by local vocalist Jason Phillips. The music recalls Ralph’s ambition earlier in life to perform with the Metropolitan Opera Company, and it also serves as scene transition.

This show also marks the first time a live animal will appear on-stage at The Public Theatre, Charlie the Chihuahua makes his debut as the ugly little dog that brings this couple together.

Mitchko, who is TPT’s co-artistic director, said this play will “send you home with a smile on your face and a lump in your throat.”

Benjamin’s stage credits also include the lovable Amos (Mr. Cellophane) in the long-running Broadway musical “Chicago” opposite stars such as Melanie Griffith and Brooke Shields. Other Broadway shows in his career include “Pippin,” Duke Ellington’s “Sophisticated Ladies,” the Tony Award winning play “Torch Song Trilogy,” Charlie in the musical “Charlie and Algernon” (Los Angeles critics award), “The Pajama Game” directed by George Abbott; “Wind in the Willows” “Ain’t Broadway Grand,” and “Sarava.” He may also be familiar to younger audiences as the voice of Sergeant Dodo Bird in the animated film, “Ice Age.”

Flaningam’s credits include Ma Joad in “The Grapes of Wrath” and Fastrada in Bob Fosse’s “Pippin” (National Tour). She also appeared as Aunt March in the National Tour of “Little Women,” as Meg in “Damn Yankees” with Tony Randall, in “Pal Joey” with Lena Horne, and in “I Love My Wife” with The Smothers Brothers.

Mitchko said, “This talented real life couple is sure to set off sparks with their delightful chemistry in “The Last Romance.” She emphasized that audiences of all ages will enjoy the show.

“The Last Romance” is playing at The Public Theatre May 3-5 and 9-12. For tickets call 782-3200 or visit www.thepublictheatre.org for more information.

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