This long-running Broadway comedy (also a popular film) is not only about a love affair taking place once a year. It is also a reflection of 25 years of American manners, morals and attitudes mirrored in the changing lives and personalities of its two characters. George picks up Doris in a California inn in 1951, and they agree to meet there once each year. Hey are both happily married—to other people—have three children and remain loyal to their spouses except for their yearly brief encounter Six scenes take place over a period of 25 years. The scenes are spaced five years apart, ending in 1975. George is at first a guilt-ridden, neurotic accountant become increasingly stuffy and rich. He gives it all up, goes into analysis, joins encounter groups, becomes a latter-day hippie and finally returns to the establishment. Doris starts as an awkward girl, then becomes progressively a young, restless housewife, a college student returnee, over-age flower child, career woman and finally settled matron. Her changes, however, never synchronize—making for poignant drama as well as hilarious comedy.
