WHAT’S SO FUNNY: Playing with ‘Scared Money’

Since it could hardly be more timely to present a play called “Scared Money,” Gallimaufry Performing Arts is premiering a comedy of that title at the Forum Theatre on April 10, 11, 17 and 18.

Gallimaufry has a strong local history of presenting quality plays both classic and offbeat, such as “Glass Menagerie” and “Sordid Lives.” This time, director Steve Josephson is going with a new work by a local playwright.

It looks like a winner to me. The script is tight and funny — there is some adult language, so don’t bring a tyke — and the cast is gifted. Since this initial production runs for only six performances, I urge you to call (949) 499-5060 or go online for tickets ( www.gallimaufry.info) and catch it here before it moves on to other venues. I must pause here. I’m told I owe it to some prissy ethical-journalism standard to add that I am the playwright, and I’m also in the cast. This may cause you to distrust my recommendation, so I’ll simply ask — no, beg — that you come see the show for yourself. I don’t mind begging. If I were too proud to beg, my wife and I would never have gotten together.

It’s true I haven’t acted in more than 30 years. I was an actor in my 20s, but I quit due to progressive humiliophobia — an intense fear and hatred of auditioning. Consequently, Kevin Kline has had nothing to worry about for three decades.

During rehearsals I’ve found that my mature acting style — quite effective when I’m alone — needs work if it’s to register with an audience. I’m a director’s challenge, but Josephson thrives on challenges. At least, he has up to now.

Fortunately the character I play is a desperate, obnoxious writer. I feel I understand this man.

Besides, the other five roles are cast with accomplished actors — Rob Harryman, Amy Hitchcock, Julie Josephson, Vanessa Ray and Rich Wordes — which will limit any damage I might do.

So overall, yes, I maintain my original statement. In fact I’ll make it stronger: Gallimaufry’s “Scared Money” is must-see theater. The subject is timely, my fellow cast members are gifted and funny, and there’s tasty disaster potential in my acting comeback for those of you who like a dash of unscripted suspense in your theatrical evening.

You’ve got two weeks to organize your life so that you can get to the Forum. Don’t forget. Think “Scared” — I know I will be.

SHERWOOD KIRALY is a Laguna Beach resident. He has written four novels, three of which were critically acclaimed. His novel, “Diminished Capacity,” is now available in bookstores, and the film version is now available on DVD.