Performances of Neil Simon's "Broadway Bound" at Butler Little Theatre will bring laughs and tears, say cast members. From left to right: Nino DeGenarro, Elizabeth Smith, Jerry Johnston and Luke Pfeifer.

This is a story for anyone who’s been part of a family, and maybe thought that family was a little too much.

This is Butler Little Theatre’s production of “Broadway Bound.”

With quick-witted dialogue keeping pace alongside the plot, the cast of Neil Simon’s semi-autobiographical play weave together a tale that makes light of family conflict, twisting it into a heartwarming tailspin.

On a colorful set that makes one feel at home, the cast transitions from lighthearted quips into serious soliloquies. The family unit exudes chemistry and real love for each other, from brotherly bickering to quick jabs and tears.

Like many families, the characters skirt around obvious issues in the family dynamic, which protagonist Eugene Jerome is able to pull from on his writer’s journey.

Eugene, played by Luke Pfeifer, is a young man with dreams of writing TV comedy. He’s an energetic, observant and sincere character. His propensity for the dramatic makes light of otherwise dark moments in the plot, as Eugene uses the seriousness of his situation to fuel his writing.

Pfeifer’s breaking of the fourth wall makes the audience feel like a fly upon it. His performance is commendable and one you won’t want to miss.

The mother-son chemistry between Pfeifer and Liz Smith, who plays matriarch Kate Jerome, is believable. They are a touching duo.

Played sympathetically and gently, Smith’s Kate is the picture of loyalty to her family. Smith’s smart retorts and quiet strength make the audience want to stick by her character.

Matt Leslie plays neurotic, high-strung older brother Stan. The fights between Stan and Eugene are backed with side-splitting punchlines. Leslie’s staccato outbursts are paralleled with declarations of truth that older siblings often feel they must express. Stan is a brave older sibling who stands up for what’s right, and Leslie’s portrayal is top notch.

In his role as grandfather Ben, Jerry Johnston carries scenes with great comedic timing and tough-as-nails angst. His speeches are passionate and filled with grit, while his expressions of love for his family soften his character.

Nino DeGennaro, who plays father Jack, fills the shoes of the aging, tired father weighed down by a heavy burden. DeGennaro navigates the complicated feelings Jack has toward his flesh and blood with skill.

Blanche — the elite, persistent sister to Kate portrayed by Deanna Sparrow — is drawn to be there for her family, though it is not always well received. Thanks to Sparrow’s take on the character, Blanche comes across as a genuine, generous concerned family member.

In short, if you’re a mother, a father, a sibling, a writer, a comedian, a homemaker or working a dead-end job, you won’t want to miss “Broadway Bound.” Due to the hard work of director Bob Dandoy and producer Kris Bearer, there’s something in it for all of us who live and love and fight through whatever life throws our way.