Smokey Joe’s Cafe

This “musical” is actually a string of hits by songwriters Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, presented by an eight-member song-and-dance team with no dialogue or storyline. Backed by a seven-member live band, the musical numbers will transport Runaway Stage Productions’ audiences back to the duo’s hit-making days of the 1950s and ’60s. There are more than 40 songs in this production, nearly all are part of the melodic vernacular of American music. They’re presented as little skits, mostly with a humorous slant. The performers give it their all, though some clearly were chosen for their vocal chords, not their footwork. Tristan Rumery, Tina Day and Lorraine DeArco are standouts, able to deliver both singing and dancing laced with personality plus.
Runaway Stage Productions, 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 2 p.m. Sunday; $12-$18. 24th Street Theatre, 2791 24th Street; (916) 207-1226; www.runawaystage.com. Through March 25.