Comic ‘Ascension’ Descends Into Twists

David H. Vowell’s biting comedy “The Ascension of Lili,” arriving on the heels of his popular one-act anthology “Acts of Passion” at the same Two Roads Theatre, offers some moving, well-performed insights into age-difference issues in romantic entanglements. It also scores points for tackling the less fashionable mature woman/younger man coupling, though clunky construction presents unnecessary obstacles.

Set in 1959 New Orleans, this two-character sparring match pits an aspiring poet (Adam Conger) against a fading celebrity (Sandra Tucker) whose famous sexy portrait he’s long admired. In a complicated premise that doesn’t bear close scrutiny, he’s figured out her plan to commit suicide and attempts a curious kind of intervention--gaining access to her home by posing as a flower delivery boy and refusing to leave.

As the caustic, no-nonsense object of his affections, Tucker defines her character’s boundaries and conflicts with assured focus, and her transition from opponent to seductress is marvelously convincing. Susan Morgenstern’s staging is tight and neatly paced, which helps the performers pave over the rough spots in their characters’ one-year tryst.

Unfortunately, the plot is way too clever for its own good. Apparently lacking confidence in the selling power of what at bottom is a straightforward lesson about poetic illusions and hard truths, the playwright piles on so many twists and feints that we’re constantly doubting the characters’ veracity. When authenticity of feeling is his play’s greatest strength, Vowell could make better use of emotional consonance.

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* “The Ascension of Lili,” Two Roads Theatre, 4348 Tujunga Ave., Studio City. Fridays, Saturdays, 8 p.m.; Sundays, 3 and 7 p.m. Ends July 8. $15. (828) 762-7488. Running time: 1 hour, 30 minutes.