ON THEATER: Laguna kids put on improv show

Improvisation is among the most difficult aspects of theater, but 18 young practitioners of the art are aiming to make it look like kid stuff.

Members of the Laguna Playhouse Youth Theater’s 2008 Improv Troupe will display their off-the-wall talents. The kids, aged 11 to 17, have one goal in mind “” making their audiences laugh.

“And they’ll stop at nothing to accomplish that goal,” promises the Youth Theater director, Donna Inglima, who’s staging the show with Kelly Herman.

Since the playhouse’s main stage will be occupied with performances of “Red Herring,” the improv presentation will be offered at the Playhouse Production Center, 23402 South Point Drive, Laguna Hills.

When queried on what to expect from the players, Inglima had this observation: “Seasoned and novice improvisers will be exercising their ‘on the spot’ skills with suggestions from the audience. I expect a show filled with topical, fantastical, toxic-free sketches.

“We’ll also premiere a new ballet “” a ballet unlike anything you’ve ever seen,” Inglima said.

Performances are scheduled for tonight at 7:30 and two Saturday stagings at 6 and 8:30 p.m. The playhouse promises its “fun-filled show is suitable for the entire family. You’ll have a terrific time and leave with a smile on your face. The kids have spent a lot of time preparing for this show. It’s shaping up to be a really fun evening.”

Tickets are $5 and may be reserved by calling the playhouse at (949) 497-2787, ext. 1. For recorded directions to the Production Center, dial the same number and choose ext. 305.

TOM TITUS reviews local theater for the Coastline Pilot.