STAGE REVIEW : ‘Money’: Out of Step With ‘90s : Though crisply done, the La Mirada production starring Meredith MacRae seems a swan song for the ‘80s.

To someone seeing “Other People’s Money” for the first time--in the Meredith MacRae rebirth at the La Mirada Theatre--it’s baffling to understand why this comedy about corporate greed was so bullish last year.

It’s not that Glenn Casale’s production on the spacious La Mirada stage is lackluster. MacRae and co-star Richard Zavaglia deliver solid performances as the embattled deal makers, the pace is crisp and the trio of supporting players is believable (notably stylish Kevin Cooney’s self-serving executive).

In addition, the set artfully distinguishes the old and new business worlds that are philosophically and financially at war here.

Despite these values, Jerry Sterner’s play (which also became a movie) appears dated, a capstone for the selfish ‘80s and, in the recessionary ‘90s, almost reactionary. Its lingering appeal, at least in this production, seems limited to latent or active corporate raiders and liquidators--in other words, people for whom restructuring, leverage and closing a deal is like hitting the sack.

As the takeover barracuda for whom business is seduction, Zavaglia (bulging with obvious stuffing to make him look obese) grows into a lustful, funny Wall Street bear whose growl is honeydewed when his female attorney adversary steps into his office, which is all the time.

His blunt horniness actually turns this gal on. It’s weird to see his sexual aggression/harassment draw whoops and laughs. These characters may deserve each other, but the woman’s final rapprochement is an off-putting turn more cynical than mellow.

Also, for a guy with his money, you’d think he would change his silk suit and floral tie once in a while. At least MacRae, in an assertive performance, enjoys a colorful array of suits and dresses (costumes by Donna Barrier).

As for the Norman Rockwell character--the stubborn, ethical CEO whose 73-year-old New England Wire and Cable Co. is on the brink--actor Sandy Kenyon grows tiresome with his constant reveries of the good old days. His veteran assistant and loving mistress is played with loyal fervor by Marte Boyle Slout.

But there’s nobody to root for. As a swan song to the ‘80s, what could be more apt?

* “Other People’s Money” runs through April 19 at the La Mirada Theatre , 14900 La Mirada Blvd., La Mirada. Performances Tuesdays through Saturday s at 8 p.m., Sundays at 7:30 p.m., Matinees Saturday and Sunday at 2:30 p.m. $23 to $27 . (213) 480-9801. Running time: 2 hours.