‘Fools’ and Gloom Are Soon Parted

Blue Sphere Alliance at the Lex Theatre is doing its best to dispel any seasonal gloom, and succeeds with its sunny production of Neil Simon’s “Fools.”

In this likable, zany trifle based on the Jewish fable “The Wise Men of Chelm,” a fledgling schoolmaster in 19th century Russia finds that his first post is in a village where, due to an ancient curse, stupidity is a way of life.

For these good-natured, loopy villagers, opening doors is always a new challenge, time and direction are iffy concepts, lost sheep are expected to write home, flowers are sold as fish and cows are turned belly up in order to provide cream on tap (this last, thankfully, is only mentioned, not seen).

Before teacher Leon (standout Chris Devlin) can beat a hasty retreat, he falls for the lovely but dim Sophia (skillfully played by glowing Kate Connor). A descendant of the woman responsible for the curse--she spurned a jealous nobleman--Sophia has just mastered the art of sitting in a chair.

Leon decides to stay, win Sophia and restore the villagers’ wandering wits. Two complications: He has only one day before the curse claims him too, and the last descendant of the spurned nobleman, Count Gregor (a Capt. Hook-ish Jay Edward Anthony), lords it over his silly subjects and lusts after Sophia himself.

With a heavy hand at the helm, Simon’s featherweight frolic would sag into a series of limp one-liners, but Anthony Barnao’s nimble direction sets the right, light tone. Among the cast, Pamela Morris pushes a bit too hard as the confused fishmonger, and Earl Carroll’s time-challenged magistrate could use more definition. But for the most part, the solid, smart ensemble--including Rich Embardo, Marsha Meyers, Scott McClain, Andy Hirsch and Paul Zegler--infuses the folly with vital sincerity and affection. The production is enhanced by the clean, simple lines of Ronnie Walsh’s set design and the sun-washed warmth provided by lighting designer Cris Capp.

“Fools,” Blue Sphere Alliance at the Lex, 6760 Lexington Ave., Hollywood, Fridays-Saturdays, 8 p.m.; Sundays, 7 p.m., except this Sunday only, 3 p.m. Ends Jan. 20. $15. (323) 957-5782. Running time: 2 hours.