Deadly unserious

OK, Curtains is corny as heck, with just a smattering of PG-rated language and innuendo, including jokes about sex and body parts. But doggone it, this tale of a stage-struck Boston detective trying to solve a string of backstage murders at a second-rate musical theater features first-rate song and dance. Frankly, murder turns out to be good for some laughs in this Runaway Stage Productions show. As usual, there are some problems with the sound system—be a dear and donate to RSP’s fund for a new system, would you?—but the sight of a body going up—and down—with the curtain is sure to set you giggling. The cast is very good, the costumes are vintage cool, and special props to both Lillian Baxter (Carmen) and Darryl Strohl (Lt. Cioffi), who we don’t see on stage nearly often enough. Recommended for ages 12 and up.

Curtains, 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. $15-$20. Runaway Stage Productions at the 24th Street Theatre, 2791 24th Street; (916) 207-1226; www.runawaystage.com. Through August 1.