When Dale and Martha Banks performed the two-person romantic drama “Love Letters” last February, they were already in character.

True to their own personalities, Martha played the free spirit, while Dale played a practical, straight-laced character.

This year the couple will switch roles, when they present “2 Across,” a romantic comedy by Jerry Mayer.

“Last year we felt quite in character, because I am a bit of a free spirit,” Martha said. “This year we have to stretch a bit. It’s fun.”

The Banks will perform the two-person play Feb. 10 at 6:30 p.m. at Riverfront Cafe in downtown Niles. Dinner and the entertainment costs $30 per person.

“2 Across” is about two people on board a 4:15 a.m. train as it leaves the San Francisco station heading toward East Bay. The play is acted out in real time — an 80-minute trip with no intermissions.

During their time on the train, they both struggle to finish a New York Times crossword puzzle. Their attitudes about finishing the puzzle lead to discussions about life, and with each passing stop, they learn a little bit more about each other.

“I think they almost fall in love,” Martha said. “But we never know because they both get off at their stops.”

Martha said last year’s Valentine’s Day-themed play was well-received by the community, which is why they decided to do it again.

“Several people said, ‘we didn’t know there is this much acting ability in Niles,'” Martha said. “And I said ‘there’s more where that came from.'”

Martha and Dale have been active in the Four Flags Players group for about five years. For more information about other upcoming plays in Niles, visit www.nilesffp.org.