Fisher Theatre will be full of laughter the next two weekends as the ISU Theatre department performs the farce “The Matchmaker” by Thornton Wilder.

Set in New York in the 1880s, the play centers around Dolly Levi, a lively widow and matchmaker played by Amanda Lloyd, senior in performing arts. Hilarity ensues as Dolly tries to match herself to Horace Vandergelder, an old gentleman played by Zac Barclay, senior in performing arts.

The play’s tangled web of courtship also ensnares other eccentric characters including a pair of teenages and a couple in their thirties.

The musical “Hello Dolly” was based on “The Matchmaker,” but director Jane Cox, associate professor of music, pointed out the differences.

“I think what the play has that the musical doesn’t is wonderful, wonderful dialogue that lets you see more deeply into the characters,” Cox said.

“There’s love, sadness and people trying to make a new start,” said Linda Pisano, who plays Miss Vanhuysen and is a costumer for the play.

Plus, the audience will be surprised by an “unexpected resolution” at the end, Pisano added.

“The costuming and sets will be gorgeous,” said stage manager Marcia Schultz, who has been watching rehearsals.

Schultz said audiences will chuckle at Dolly’s “subtle manipulation” of characters and will learn that they shouldn’t take things for granted.

“Thornton Wilder makes a lot of comment on how we live our lives. It will make people laugh and also give them something to think about,” Cox said.

“The Matchmaker” is appropriate for all ages, Cox added, and “there will be something for everyone who comes.”

“The Matchmaker” will be performed at 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 22, 23, 28 and March 1 and 2. There will be a 2 p.m. matinee performance on Feb. 24.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $4.50 for students. They can be purchased at the Iowa State Center box office, all Ticketmaster locations, or by calling (515) 233-1888.