Two on the Aisle, Three in a Van

As another work that makes affectionate fun of theater people, Mary Lynn Dobson's "Two on the Aisle, Three in a Van" is an amusing, energetic jolt that skewers pretentious concept directors yet has a soft spot for actors and technicians. The troupe in question offers not only "Hello, Dolly!" but "Medea." The director, looking through the glass darkly, envisions Dolly Levi as a pimp and Medea as a Greek serial killer.

At the center are levelheaded Mike (an appealing Jim Stanek) and diva Meredith (a dexterous Natascia Diaz). She lives for the theater and, of course, has an empty social life. In the hurricane of mishaps, ambition, overacting, and internecine intrigue, actor Harriett (the wonderful Terri Sturtevant) is the calm eye who shows the joys of an active and romantic private life. The character adds needed sentiment to this full-length, well-acted farce, directed with lively precision by playwright Dobson.

Presented by Tiger Theatricals and Dan Whitten in association with Peter Riga Jr. as part of the New York International Fringe Festivalat the Connelly Theater, 220 E. Fourth St., NYC.Aug. 16–29. Remaining performances: Sat., Aug. 22, 9:30 p.m.; Tue., Aug. 25, 9:15 p.m.; Wed., Aug. 26, 4 p.m.; Sat., Aug. 29, noon.