'The Big Idea' aims for big laughs

A writer’s imagination blurs the lines of imagination and reality during The Comedy Playhouse’s latest production, “The Big Idea.”

The story revolves around Richard Howard, a writer who is in desperate need of $22,000. When his friend Elaine finds out about his problem, she suggests that he write about it. But not just a short story. Elaine proposes he script a full-length play to earn the life-changing funds.

Richard begins to write about his problem. By the middle of the second act, Richard has written about everything the audience has seen in the play. From that point on, the novice playwright has trouble sorting fact from fantasy as he searches for “the big idea” that will give his story – and his life – a happy ending, and the audience an evening of laughs.

“The Big Idea” pokes holes in the conventions of playwriting and performing. Audiences are invited to join in the fun as the cast tries to sort out what’s real and what’s make-believe in this comic production.

Joining Hammack, Blum and Bieszki onstage are Colin Roberts, Sean O’Connell and Rebecca Niesen.

“The Big Idea” continues through Feb. 19.  Performances are Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:30 and Sunday afternoons at 3.

Admission is $18, with discounts available for seniors and students.

Call 260-6442 for reservations.

The Comedy Playhouse is located at 3620 N. 1st Ave., at the northeast corner of Prince Road and 1st Avenue in central Tucson.

Coming next is “Holmes and Watson II,” Feb. 25-April 9. This new production follows the sleuthing pair as they tackle four cases. Audiences can match wits with the famous detective and his sleuthing partner in this all-new series of adaptations of the classic stories of A. Conan Doyle.

The Comedy Playhouse actors Tony Eckstat and Drew Kallen will reprise their roles as Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson, respectively, as they present, “The Adventure of Charles Augustus Milverton,” “The Adventure of the Final Problem,” “The Adventure of the Empty House” and “The Adventure of the Second Stain.”

For more information, call 260-6442 or visit www.thecomedyplayhouse.com.