The new musical “A Commercial Jingle for Regina Comet” with music, book and lyrics by Ben Fankhauser and Alex Wyse, who also star in the Off-Broadway production now occupying the DR2 Theater is old. That’s a compliment and a good thing. It comes across as a good old fashioned musical comedy from decades ago with a present-day spin. The book is completely implausible, the lyrics are sometimes trite or sophomoric and the music is simple. The reason why those observations make absolutely no difference is because it is fun, entertaining and delivered by a cast that is energetic, campy and vocally more than adequate to ignite fireworks into the musical material. Basically, it is an enjoyable evening at the theater that is certainly welcome after a too long hiatus and eighteen months in the dark.

The plot revolves around the washed-up rock star Regina Comet (a remarkable Bryonha Marie Parham), who finds her popularity dwindling and is informed tickets to her upcoming arena concert are not selling, despite the lazars. The plan to resurrect her career is to hire some writers to create a catchy jingle for her new fragrance called “Relevance.” Enter Man 2 and Other Man, two jingle writers hoping to find the big break that will launch their careers. They appear to have a long collaborative relationship and seemingly best friends. They are hired. As in all old-fashioned musical comedy there must be a love interest and here Man 2 falls for Regina Comet. Other Man being jealous, tries desperately to initiate a business entity with the star. Of course, all fail at their endeavors, but not to worry. There is always a happily ever after. There is nothing new, no underlying message, no political agenda, nothing offensive, no extravagant scenery, a three-piece band and a small three-member cast. It goes back to roots, the way that Off Broadway used to be, dependent on the performance and the material. Perhaps now is the time to go back in order to move forward.

The cast works diligently and seem to be having just as much fun as the audience. Ms. Parham effortlessly belts out her musical number like a true star. Her comedic sense is natural, never forced and she breathes a bit of reality into her fictional character giving her heart. Mr. Fankhauser is enjoyable to watch as the forlorn lover and his vocals impeccable. Mr. Wyse lands well as a side kick bouncing around the stage filling it with exuberant energy and hitting all the right notes. Together they create flawless harmonies in their duets that seem to float in the air. Director Marshall Pailet keeps the action moving a fast, steady pace always giving his cast the room to soar. It is a treat to see and hear wonderful talented artists not masked by multiple costume changes or lost behind extravagant scenery. Do yourself a favor and catch this lighthearted, fun production before it closes.