Laughter in the cave

Man has always identified with the Neolithic caveman, he of clubs and rare meat roasted over a fire. California Musical Theatre’s latest production, Rob Becker’s Defending the Caveman, is a laughter-inducing romp around the battle of the sexes, as told through a man’s eyes. Four different actors will perform throughout the show’s run, and the first performer, Cody Lyman, knew exactly how to get the audience on his side. Through anecdotes told about his own marriage, he illustrates the differences between genders with witticisms and more than a few poignant thoughts. The play remains the longest-running solo Broadway show in history, and for good reason. In the audience, couples traded sideways glances as stories made them relive their own life experiences. It’s a humorous way to accept our own foibles and bring the sexes closer together with a laugh.

Defending the Caveman, 7 p.m. Wednesday, 2 and 7 p.m. Thursday, 8 p.m. Friday, 2 and 8 p.m. Saturday, and 2 p.m. Sunday. $33-$43. California Musical Theatre at the Cosmopolitan Cabaret, 1000 K Street; (916) 557-1999; www.californiamusicaltheatre.com. Through September 11.