If you've ever acted, directed or "teched" for a play (or even wanted to do any of those things), Tacoma Little Theatre's production of Noises Off is the play to see. In three acts that seem to take far less time than their two hours, the audience watches as the cast attempts to rehearse and perform the play Nothing On. "Attempts" is the key word, you see, not because the cast isn't talented or rehearsed - but because the real play, Noises Off, is a farce about the theater. It's a play about putting on a play.

Director Marty Mackenzie includes this definition of farce in his director notes. "... A comic genre that depends on an elaborately contrived, usually improbable plot, broadly drawn stock characters, and physical humor. Most farces are amoral and exist to entertain."

Mackenzie goes on to ask the audience to "jump on the wagon and go for the ride," also stating he has "a stellar cast and fabulous crew." The director is correct on both accounts - as was evident by the audience roaring with laughter at the antics of the actors (except four older patrons who decided during the second intermission that they'd "had enough" and left).

People who haven't spent time in a theater company may think the plot of Noises Off is improbable or elaborately contrived. Those who have been part of theatre, however, will quickly recognize writer Michael Frayn has exposed the ridiculousness of the theatrical world. Frayn explores the relationships between actors, directors and crew - as well as common issues like actors knowing everyone else's lines except their own, missing props and the overwhelming understanding that "the show must go on". By incorporating all the things that could or have gone afoul during the production of a play, all featured in one real play, Frayn has created a remarkably humorous and enjoyable show.

Playing one character is challenging enough, but these actors do double duty as actors playing characters. All the players in Noises Off performed admirably transitioning back and forth - resulting in one of the best examples of a cohesively talented cast seen this season. Each of the actors stood out during different moments of the production, but a few were impressive the whole performance - most notably: Brynne Garman (Dotty/Mrs. Clackett), Elliot Weiner (Selsdon/Burglar), and Jenifer Rifenbery (Brooke/Vicki). Garman's character development of Dotty, Weiner's portrayal of alcohol obsessed, aging, actor Selsdon and the contrast that Rifenbery creates between Brooke and Vicki are amazing to watch. Corey Moore (Lloyd) creates a partially reserved, frustrated director who can't quite let go of his show.

Moore could have been more animated as the irate director, but thankfully McKenzie did a great job getting just the right balance. The physical comedy, timing and coordination between all the actors demonstrate the cast is not only talented but extremely well rehearsed.

Scene designer Doug Kerr did an amazing job creating a set that can be turned around to show the audience the backstage view for the second act. The set changes were quick, efficient and interesting to watch. Frances Rankos' costume designs were marvelous - whether on or off the actors. Unless you're a prude, none of the costumes - or lack thereof - should cause you to blush. However, the costuming may not be appropriate for younger children as Brooke/Vicki wears lingerie for the majority of the play, and several other characters lose pants or skirts throughout the performance.

[Tacoma Little Theatre, Noises Off, through April 25, 7:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday, $15-$24, 210 N. I St., Tacoma, 253.272.2281]